Changes

Lowenstein softPAP 1 & 2 algorithm favors Apnea control at lower pressures, but does come at on basic CPAP/APSAP models. However there are a cost in some individualsvast range of sleep disordered breathing conditions that need specific help. If you look closely at previous example, you can see the holding of steady pressure right through inspiration, can allow inspiratory instability as in susceptible personsthis case with '''UARS''' (upper airway respiratory syndrome). UARS sufferers may experience persistent narrowing of the airway when this mode of therapy is appliedon the models more suited for generalized obstructive sleep apnea.

This is where '''Softpap3''' or '''Tri-level''' support comes indoes give some advanced level of multilevel support for a mix of OSA and UARS. This mode is introduced in the '''Prisma20a''' models and beyond. In this mode the machine addresses the problem of flow limitations by adding an extra level of inspiratory support. This mode applies an extra 1cmH2o to your machine set machine max IPAP pressure. This raises your IPAP by 1cmH2o and leverages the increasing pressure and flow applies it during early inspiration to stabilize the airwaythese flow limitations. This mode has different trigger points for following your breathing pattern.

Normally, in regular Softpap and EPR, the ramp rate is constant. Here, you can see in the example below, that the ramp rate of Softpap3 or Tri-level mode, increases and decreases to stay in time with shorter and longer breaths. The SofPap 3 increases the maximum pressure support offered by Tri-Level mode is to 4cmH2o, but this only comes into effect @ 12cm H2o and beyond. Below is a period of flow limitation that softpap 3 is managing.

As you can see, each of these machines must be approached very differently in use. They are tools with various modes of operation, different strengths and weaknesses. Lower level machines are factory limited to reduce the amount of useful pressure support. These entry level machines are often only useful for rudimentary control of OSA. Many people who turn up seeking help actually just having trouble with obtaining not only apnea control but better sleep, often need these Bi-level or Tri-level modes properly applied. They really change therapy quite drastically. In quite a few instances, more levels of pressure support and trigger finer adjustments etc will be to match an individuals breathing patterns are needed and so a step up in machine ability is required. You would be advised to quickly figure out if your machine will do what it needs to. Stop torturing yourself if you need to move to a better dedicated bi-level machine.