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Can I lower the pressure? - Printable Version

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Can I lower the pressure? - GaspForAir - 12-08-2023

I have recently started using CPAP again after I switched to the Bleep mask system which allowed me to control leaks better (this after trying about 10 other masks). Things have been going pretty well as evidenced by my OSCAR data:
[attachment=56973]
There are some things I'd like to improve, however. The most important is mouth dryness. I am not using the humidifier system with my ResMed AirCurve 10 ASV because if my nose gets too wet, the bleep adhesive sticks poorly. I will experiment some more with that. But sometimes I feel like there is too much air blowing around which is drying my mouth so maybe I should reduce one or more settings? But which ones? I have no idea how this thing works!
BTW I'm an old guy (75) and mouth dryness will continue to be a problem. And I tape my mouth. And I use Biotene toothpaste.

Thanks!


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - SarcasticDave94 - 12-08-2023

Hi,

Current settings on the ASV Auto
EPAP 6-9
PS 3-11
Equals IPAP 9-20

OK my opinion, since the EPAP range is small, you'll probably not have much room to reduce there. PS however, maybe you can shave 2 of the PS Max down to 9, giving Max IPAP 18. Best suggestion is try it and base it on how you feel after using.

One caveat is would this OSCAR chart represent about where you're at pressure wise? This proposed edit steals 2 from the top end, regardless where you take it. This particular chart you maxed at IPAP 15.8.

On humidity, the humidifier has 2 modes Auto and Manual. When I was on ASV I ran mine manual between 4-8 depending on season and indoors humidity. This manual mode means it will not vary from the set number.

Are you using a heated hose? You may want one, and maybe a hose cover. These 2 additions fight the rainout (moisture).


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - Sleeprider - 12-08-2023

I think you'd like to add a Snugglehose fleece hose cover and turn on the humidifier system to something effective that won't cause moisture to condense. I'll off-hand suggest turning on the humidifier to manual climate control at setting 3 and if you're using a climateline, set tube temperature to 80*F (27 C). You can reduce pressure because there are no obstructive events. Here are some settings to try:
Mode: ASV Auto
EPAP min: 4.0
EPAP max: 7.0
PS min: 3.0
PS max; 9.0

Should resolve your issues, but post back with your experience and comments.


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - SarcasticDave94 - 12-08-2023

Go with Sleeprider numbers, I was being conservative in lowering it.


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - Sleeprider - 12-08-2023

I did not see SarcasticDave's comment before posting, but we're really on the same track and the same PS range.


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - GaspForAir - 12-09-2023

Thank you!! I will report back in a few days.


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - Kathy14225 - 12-09-2023

I'm don't think the biotene toothpaste is doing you any good. Even the mouth wash doesn't moisturize much, it's more of a no alcohol wash. I would suggest the biotene spray or xylimelts.


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - Deborah K. - 12-09-2023

Xylimelts help a lot with dry mouth and usually last the whole night. I did not find any type of Biotene helpful.


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - GaspForAir - 12-09-2023

This is good information. Thank you!


RE: Can I lower the pressure? - GaspForAir - 12-11-2023

I have made the changes suggested by Sleeprider, principally

EPAP min: 4.0
EPAP max: 7.0
PS min: 3.0
PS max: 9.0

And it has worked out great!! Much more comfortable especially with a much less dry mouth.
Here's last night:
[attachment=57087]

Thanks to all the help, especially Sleeprider and SarcasticDave94. Your suggestions have been invaluable to me.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukah!