If you are in need of a Compliance report for your CPAP machine, it may be easier than you thought. Whether it is for DOT medical card purposes, follow up with your doctor, or just for your own info, we can help. At CPAPmyway we are preferred providers for all of the major CPAP manufacturers. This means that we have access to their clinical software and can pull those reports for you. No matter where you are in the U.S. and even if you didn’t buy the CPAP from us. Below we detail how to get this done.

How to get a CPAP Compliance Report at CPAPmyway:

In most cases we can remotely view your data and pull it in minutes. The first time may take a bit to get it setup, but after that it is very easy. Let’s go through a few of the scenarios and what we will need to get this report from you.

Remote CPAP reports:

If you have a CPAP that has a built-in transmission modem, then we might can get this report remotely for you. it does not matter where you are located. CPAP machines like the ResMed AirSense 10, AirSense 11, Luna G3, DreamStation, and DreamStation 2 all have the ability to transmit wirelessly. This means that after we get your information, we will likely be able to pull this report remotely, any time you need it.

What will we need to provide this report to you?

All that you have to do for us is fill out our contact form by clicking here, and then provide the details listed below in the “message portion”. Once we have your information setup we will reach out and process your order. This will usually be done in 1 business day. There will be a $20 fee for the report, but that will include faxing or emailing anywhere you need it sent. We can collect that fee by phone after we get your data. Please include the information below on the Contact Form.

• First and Last Name
• Date of Birth
• Serial Number (SN) from the CPAP machine (not the humidifier)
• Device Number (DN) from the CPAP Machine. This applies to ResMed only and is near the serial number
• Phone Number
• Email Address

Need a Local CPAP Compliance Report?

If you are anywhere near us here in Central Florida, then it may be worth the drive to get an immediate CPAP Compliance Report at our office. We are located at 101 S Collins St in Plant City, FL. That is directly between Tampa and Orlando on Interstate 4. We are just minutes from Lakeland, Zephyrhills, Winter Haven, Dade City, Bartow and more. If you are in Hillsborough, Polk, Pasco, or Pinellas County, then we are right around the corner.

What is needed for a Local CPAP Compliance Report?

We will need all of the same information. However, it is best to just bring the entire CPAP Machine WITH the SD card to us. If you do not have an SD card, then we have them here for sale. Just be sure to bring the CPAP Machine. It is best to call ahead (813-704-6038) and make sure that we are open and available, but walk-ins are welcome. We are open in the office from 9-5 eastern (closed 12-1 for lunch), Monday through Friday. The cost is also $20 and we can collect that in-person at the time of the download.

What is considered “compliant on CPAP” – Learn Here

   

There is an option for those of you that hate your CPAP Headgear and all of the issues those straps can cause. Introducing, NozeSeal adhesive strips. This very cool option allows you to keep your CPAP mask on without the need for head straps. There are some things to keep in mind if you want to use this option. Let’s check out those details.

Can NozeSeal strips work for you?

The NozeSeal strips are designed to work only with Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks. If you are already on a Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask, then this is a pretty seamless transition. If you are not on a Nasal Pillow mask, then you may want to learn more about them and see if they are something that you can consider. NozeSeal will not work with Traditional Nasal Masks or Full-Face Masks.

Which Nasal Pillow Mask does NozeSeal work on?

NozeSeal works great for many Pillow options, but there are some that are not a good fit. Nasal Pillow Masks like the ResMed AirFit P10, React Rio 2, Swift Fx, and even the Philips Nuance are great options.  All of these CPAP Masks will work well without headgear. Some of the masks that it will not work well with are the F&P Brevida, Pilario, the P30i or the DreamWear Pillow. This is because of the frame or pillow style they incorporate. So, you will need to keep this in mind as you consider this product.

How to use NozeSeal instead of Headgear:

The first thing that you need to do is to make sure that the NozeSeal Strips will work with your mask. If not, then you will need a mask that works with it. As long as you have an appropriate CPAP Mask, then follow the steps below:

1. Remove your headgear from your mask.
2. Slip the Nasal Pillow cushion through the holes of the NozeSeal and make sure that the slots are facing the right direction.
3. Hold the Pillows snuggly against your nostrils.
4. Then you will peel and stick each side of the NozeSeal Strips to each side of your nose. Holding the mask in place.

What are the downsides to NozeSeal vs CPAP Headgear?

• They are not reusable– While using CPAP without headgear is amazing, these strips are disposable. Which means that you will have to purchase them continually. They are not expensive, but it is a continual cost.
• Not the best for higher pressures– If you are at a significantly high CPAP pressure, then you may have some trouble sealing. However, if you are already using Nasal Pillows, then you probably are not on a very high pressure anyway.
• Might be tough for people with dexterity issues– If you have arthritis or limitations in your ability to assemble small things, then this may be tough to setup nightly for you.
• Only works with Nasal Pillows– If you are accustomed to traditional Nasal CPAP Masks or Full-Face CPAP Masks, then you would have to change to Nasal Pillows to use NozeSeal.
• Once it is on, it is on– This means that if you had to go to the restroom or get up for something, you would have to refit or leave mask attached and disconnect from tubing.

   

If you have ever given consideration to trying out the Memory Foam CPAP Mask that ResMed makes, then this blog is for you. My wife Caitlin has been on CPAP for quite a few years now and she is our “go-to” for a quality review on everything we carry. Recently she tried out the AirTouch F20 by ResMed. She did this because she has been getting abrasion on the bridge of her nose. Below we discuss her experience with this Memory Foam Mask.

Why did Caitlin try the AirTouch F20 vs others?

Caitlin is a mouth breather for sure. This means that she would either need a Nasal Mask with chinstrap or mouth tape or she would need to use a Full-Face Style CPAP Mask. After trying a bunch, she settled on the full face. Just found that style much easier and effective. Over the years she has used the Amara View, Brevida, Simplus, and Vitera to name a few. Recently she started to experience more issues with the mask rubbing her raw at the bridge of the nose. She needed some kind of relief. So, I brought her home the AirTouch F20 from ResMed. This mask is made of memory foam instead of silicone. Supposedly giving the user a much more comfortable experience.

What did Caitlin think of the AirTouch F20?

Obviously, owning a CPAP business helps when you want to try new Masks. Caitlin could use any mask she wants and swap any time she wants. So, it just makes sense to try them all. the AirTouch is probably the very last that she has tried, and I am not really sure why. Maybe she thought it was just too different to work or that she wouldn’t like memory foam. As with anything however, once you try it you find pros and cons that you didn’t predict. Below we detail her positive and negative reviews on the mask.

Caitlin’s AirTouch F20 Pros:

• Great for the Hair– As we know hair is a big deal for the ladies. Cailtin is able to get much less “kinks” and issues with her hair on this particular mask.
• Soft on the face– The foam gives a very light touch on the face which gives a great seal without the discomfort.
• Less irritation at bridge of nose– She says that there is still a bit of discomfort at the bridge of the nose, but WAY less than the Silicone versions she has tried.

Caitlin’s AirTouch F20 Cons:

• When it starts leaking it is over– You need to have an extra AirTouch F20 cushion lying around in case yours wears out. Once they go bad there isn’t much you can do to resolve the leak.
• Still has some irritation at bridge of nose– Even though it is better she still gets marks on the bridge of her nose. Nothing significant, but it should be pointed out.

 

An oxygen concentrator can have a myriad of issues over time. Luckily, most of those problems can be fixed or corrected easily. I spent years on call 24 hours a day helping our oxygen customers with their oxygen equipment. In an effort to be able to go back to sleep at night I learned a lot about how to fix things with customers by phone. So, in this blog I am going to pass along some of what I learned from those midnight phone calls.

No Flow from Oxygen Cannula or Tubing:

Not feeling the flow of oxygen is a very common issue. There are a couple ways to determine whether this issue is a big problem or not. First thing to do is to make sure that the concentrator is on and running. Should be pretty audible. Next, check the liter flow gauge on the concentrator to make sure that ball is on your liter flow setting. If it is not try adjusting the dial to increase the flow to your prescribed level. If the ball is showing the correct setting, try covering the oxygen outlet to see if the ball drops then remove your finger to see if the ball jumps back up. If that is happening then you have flow, and the issue is somewhere down the line. If you are using a humidifier bottle, then that is probably the issue. Cross threading the water bottle will allow the oxygen to leak out. Unscrew the water bottle and rethread it back on carefully to make sure it is not cross-threaded. Then check your tubing to make sure that you do not have kinks or crimps restricting the flow. Replacing the entire tubing and cannula may be a good idea as well.  Typically, if there is physical restriction you will see the ball drop on the liter flow gauge. After all of this has been done take a glass of water and dip the end of your tubing or cannula in the water. If it is bubbling, then it is likely working.

The Concentrator is Alarming:

If your Oxygen Machine is alarming, then there could be a bunch of potential issues. So, I am going to go over the top resolvable reasons that I have encountered for alarming Concentrators over the years. If none of these issues below help, then you may have a larger issue that will require replacement or repair.

Check your Power:

First thing you should do is make sure that the oxygen machine is still plugged in. Next, check to make sure that you do not have a light switch that controls the outlet that may have been accidentally turned off. If you are certain that you have power, then you should check the surge protector button. Usually, it is a little black or white button near the on and off switch.

Check your flow:

If there is a restriction in the tubing and the liter flow ball is dropping, then you may have a restriction. Check the adjustment on the liter flow ball first. You would be surprised how often a grandkid played with that setting. If that isn’t the issue then, that restriction is almost always from the water bottle if you have a humidifier on the machine. Many times, the down spout in the water bottle clogs and restricts the flow of the oxygen. Other times, the oxygen tubing is crimped or kinked and will restrict the flow. In either case it is a great idea to replace the water bottle and tubing to ensure proper functionality.

Check your Filter:

Most concentrators have a filter. It may be external, internal or both. Check the external filter first. That is usually a foam filter and is on the back or side of the concentrator. Make sure that this filter is clean and if not give it a good rinse and dry. If that filter is good, then check the internal filter. That filter should be changed every 6-12 months in most cases. If it has not been done, then it should be done.

Do you have room around the Oxygen Machine?

These machines have to circulate lots of air. This is because it pulls your room air at about 21% oxygen and 78% nitrogen and filters out all the nitrogen. Then it expels the nitrogen into the air around the concentrator. If your concentrator is in a confined space, then it may run out of usable oxygen. So, you should never have the oxygen machine covered or in a closet.

Things to have on hand if you are on oxygen:

• Extra humidifier bottles
• Extra Oxygen Tubing
• Extra Cannulas.
• Extra filters
• Backup Oxygen tank or power supply
• Secondary Oxygen concentrator potentially

   

While the amount of sound a CPAP makes is not the only concern it is probably one of the most important. If your CPAP is too loud, then you probably will not sleep well. In this blog we compare each Travel CPAP model on a decibel meter. All of them were set exactly the same at 10cm with the same setup.   In our comparison we ran the ResMed AirMini, the Transcend Micro, and the Breas Z2 on a decibel meter. Each of them were hooked up with 6ft slim style CPAP tubes and attached to a ResMed N20 nasal mask. The Micro and the Z2 both were connected with their tubing muffler which are included. The AirMini was hooked up with it’s own proprietary tube. The findings are listed below.

Transcend Micro Travel CPAP sound levels:

The Transcend Micro fluctuated between about 46-55 decibels when running at a setting of 10cm. On inhalation the sound was about 55 decibels and on exhalation is backed off to around 46. We did use the Transcend tubing muffler in line to give the lowest sound that we could.

Breas Z2 Travel CPAP sound levels:

The Breas Z2 was a bit more stable from inhalation to exhalation and ranged from about 55-60 decibels. This unit was also set at a pressure of 10cm and attached to me with an N20 Nasal Mask. We also used the Q-lite tube muffler on the Z2 to have the lowest sound possible.

ResMed AirMini Travel CPAP sound levels:

The AirMini was the quietest in our comparison. On inhalation it topped out at around 51 decibels, and on exhalation it dropped to about 42. This was also hooked up to the N20 Nasal mask at 10cm using the AirMini N20 adapter.  

We have quite a few customers that use oxygen in addition to their CPAP or BiPAP. Many of them over the years have asked us if they can use their Portable Oxygen System with the CPAP. The answer is yes, and no, and the answer depends completely on what Oxygen System you are using. So, let’s take a deeper dive.

What type of Oxygen Systems will not work with CPAP?

This predicament seems mostly to be surrounded by the complication of traveling with CPAP and Oxygen together. That is because most people using this combination have a very large Home Oxygen Concentrator that connects to their CPAP at night. That is a very difficult thing to transport for sure. Many customers have tried to use their Portable Oxygen System while traveling only to have significant issue. So, why don’t the portable systems work.

Why don’t Portable Oxygen Systems work with CPAP?

Almost all of the Portable Oxygen Concentrators or tanks work in a Pulse Dose or Pneumatic fashion. This means that they will only dose the oxygen as they sense the person breathing. This allows a very small system to generate enough oxygen without having to waste any. Because of this it is not capable of delivering enough oxygen to bleed into the CPAP. In fact, most will not work at all. If it is a Portable Oxygen Concentrator, it will probably start alarming. So, what can you use?

What type of Oxygen Systems will work with CPAP?

If you have been prescribed both Oxygen and CPAP or BiPAP therapy, then probably have the large Oxygen Machine connected to the CPAP on your nightstand. The Home Concentrators are designed to provide continuous flow of up to 5 liters per minute of oxygen (for most models). This is a great option for bleeding in the Oxygen to the CPAP device. However, it stinks for travel. Which leaves you wondering if there is a way to use a smaller option for Oxygen.

What type of Portable Oxygen Systems will work with CPAP?

While almost all of the really small “over-the-shoulder” Oxygen Systems will not work with CPAP, there are still options. The catch is that your Portable Oxygen system must have a Continuous flow setting. There are only a few that do, and they are usually a bit larger. However, they are not nearly as big as the Home Oxygen Concentrator. They range in size from about 9 pounds to about 20. Usually, they are designed to be transported and are on carts or carry cases. With one of these options, you can switch to the Continuous flow setting when you get settled and connect it to your CPAP.

Which Portable Oxygen Models work with CPAP?

There are a few options that work very well with CPAP. As stated above, they will have to have continuous flow settings. Additionally, you will want to be sure that the settings are high enough to suffice whatever liter flow setting you have been prescribed. Below is a list of models that will work for you:

Portable Oxygen Model Options for CPAP:

• Zeno Portable Concentrator– This model is very small and lightweight. It will go up to a continuous flow setting of 2 LPM.
• SimplyGo Portable Concentrator– The SimplyGo is very similar to the Zeno and also goes up to a setting of 2 LPM continuous.
• Oxlife Portable Concentrator– This model is a bit larger than the other two here. However, it will go up to a setting of 3 LPM for those on slightly higher oxygen prescriptions.

 

Selecting the right CPAP mask can be a daunting task. For us, it has been helpful to narrow down the selections first by choosing a CPAP Mask Style first. There have always been 3 different styles for a very long time (nasal, nasal pillow and full), but these days we actually break them down in to 5 styles. Below we will take a deeper dive on each Mask Style and how to select the best mask for you. Each category has a great video to help you visualize what the mask options might be like.

Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks:

Almost everyone considers a Nasal Pillow CPAP mask at first. For many it is a great option, but for others it is quite the opposite. A nasal pillow mask is designed to be very small, simple, and easy to use. This is because there is very little surface area to seal. These masks feature two nasal buds that rest on your nostrils, and they usually have very little headgear and straps. Let’s take a look at what makes this mask a good style for you or not.

When Nasal Pillows are a good idea:

• Claustrophobic CPAP users– If you really cannot stand something on your face restricting you then these very minimal masks are a great option.
• Low pressure users– If you are on a CPAP pressure of 10 or less Nasal Pillows can be great.
• Side Sleepers– Many of the Nasal Pillow masks are very low profile. This makes them great for CPAP users that sleep on their side or move side to side.
• Irritation from other styles– If you have had issues with irritation from other masks, like on the bridge of the nose you should consider a Nasal Pillow.

When are Nasal Pillows a bad idea:

• Heavy mouth breathers– If you struggle to breathe through your nose, then Nasal Pillows are out. Mouth breathers wake up with dry mouth frequently. If you can sit calmly while awake and breathe easily through your nose, then you are probably not a mouth breather.
• High CPAP Pressure– CPAP ranges typically from 4-20cm of pressure. When you are on the top half of that range, then Nasal Pillows can be tough. Mostly due to exhalation restriction.
• Exhalation issues– If you feel like you struggle to exhale Nasal Pillows will usually make that worse. Exhaling through two small holes with continuous pressure coming out of them, can be difficult.

Nasal Cradle CPAP Masks:

Nasal Cradle CPAP Masks are a newer addition to the CPAP mask world. They feature a seal under the nose but have a broader seal than their Nasal Pillow cousin. Many Nasal Cradle masks have very similar headgear and frames to the Nasal Pillow. Some are even interchangeable with their Nasal Pillow counterpart. For a detailed look at the top Nasal Cradle  Masks check out that blog here.

When Nasal Cradles are a good idea:

• It is the “in-between”– There are benefits to pillows and benefits of traditional Nasal. This cradle style gives you the best of both. For instance: easier exhalation like a nasal mask with minimal mask like a pillow mask.
• No pressure on the nostrils– The pillow CPAP masks can really irritate the nostrils. The cradle style greatly reduces that pressure point.
• Ease of use– The cradle style can be great for CPAP users that have dexterity issues or mobility limitations. Their simplicity allows for people to take them on and off easily.

When Nasal Cradles are a bad idea:

• Side of nose leak– If you are getting continual leaks at the side of the nose and downsizing the cushion doesn’t work, then cradle masks probably will not work.
• Mouth Breathers– Once again the Nasal Cradle CPAP Mask options are not a great plan without some way or keeping your mouth shut.
• Point of nose irritation– From time to time the Nasal Cradle style will irritate the tip of the nose. Some models of Nasal Cradle are better than others, but this can happen with all of them.

Standard Nasal CPAP Masks:

The Standard Nasal Style CPAP Mask has been around for a very long time. It typically surrounds the nose entirely and goes over top of the bridge of the nose. These are usually very effective, but they are a bit cumbersome compared to the Nasal Pillow or Nasal Cradle versions. There are quite a few options available in this mask, and it can be a great choice for some CPAP users. Let’s dive into the pros and cons of them.

When Nasal Masks are a good idea:

• Exhalation is easier– The Nasal Style CPAP mask is a good bit easier to exhale on than the Cradles and especially the pillows. So, if you are struggling with exhalation on a nasal pillow the standard nasal may be an option.
• Simple seal– Because this mask seals around the nose it is usually pretty easy to seal and works for most people.
• Easy to keep in place– Some of the simplest masks like the Pillows or the Cradles can move out of place while you shift in your sleep. The 4-point headgear on the Nasal Masks stays in place very well.

When Nasal Masks are a bad idea:

• Mouth Breathers– Again, because you have to breathe through the nose only on a Nasal Mask, mouth breathers do not fare well in most cases.
• Bridge of nose issues– If you have a pronounced bridge of your nose, then the Nasal Mask may rub a bit there. This can cause irritation, and maybe even rub the skin raw.
• Stomach sleepers– If you sleep with your face down then Nasal Masks may hit the pillow and cause leaks or discomfort.

Traditional Full Face CPAP Masks:

A Traditional Full-Face Mask is usually a triangular shape. It will cover the mouth and nose by going over top of the bridge of the nose. Much like the standard Nasal Masks. Many of these masks are very popular because they work well and have been around for a long time. Let’s take a closer look at what might make this mask style a good or bad idea for you.

When Traditional Full Face is a good idea:

• Mouth Breathers– This is the top recommendation for people that are primarily breathing through their mouth. This style mask gives you the ability to breathe easily through mouth or nose.
• Simple to seal– This traditional style Full Face mask is pretty darn easy to seal, and it works for most people.
• High pressure CPAP users– If you are at a pretty high pressure on your CPAP then this is more than likely the style of mask that you should use. The Mirage Quattro and Vitera are good options for this.

When Traditional Full Face is a bad idea:

• Bridge of nose issues– Some full face CPAP masks can really rub the bridge of the nose. This can cause some significant skin issues at the point of contact there.
• Claustrophobic– If having something over your face or in your line of sight bothers you, then this will not be a great option.
• Stomach Sleepers– If you sleep face down, then this is a tough mask. They have a large profile and can cause discomfort and leaks when it hits the pillow.

Minimal Contact Full Face CPAP Masks:

Minimal Contact Full Face masks are the newest style available. There are a few options available today and all of them are unique. They all feature a seal that goes over the mouth, but seals under the nose instead of over the nose. This gives you a similar therapy to the traditional full face with a much less cumbersome fit. Let’s look at the details.

When Minimal Contact is a good idea:

• Claustrophobic mouth breathers– If you are a mouth breather but need a less invasive option, this style is worth considering. They have a much better open line of sight.
• Bridge of nose discomfort– If you have had any issues with irritation at the bridge of your nose the minimal contact style completely solves that issue.
• Great for people wearing glasses– If you like to read or watch TV before bed and need to wear glasses this is a great option. Minimal Contact Full face masks give you clear line of sight.

When Minimal Contact is a bad idea:

• Leaks at side of nose– If you have a really pointy nose, then it can be tough to seal on the sides of the nose with a Minimal Contact Full.
• Can irritate the tip of the nose– Sometimes depending on your nose theses masks can rub or irritate the tip of your nose.
• Big mustaches– If you have a lot of upper lip hair, then you may have issues sealing with this style mask.

Some call it EPR, others call it FLEX, and still others call it Reslex. Regardless of the name they are all exhalation relief settings. These settings are designed to give the CPAP user an easier time exhaling. It does this by reducing the pressure by a certain amount every time it senses you exhaling. This simple adjustment can make a huge difference in your CPAP Therapy experience. Below, we will go over this setting in the major models in detail.

ResMed CPAP Exhalation Relief – EPR

EPR stands for Exhalation Pressure Relief. It can be adjusted from 0-3 in increments of 1. At an EPR setting of 0 you have no exhalation relief at all. At a setting of 3 you get 3 cm of pressure relief when you exhale. So, for instance. If you have your ResMed CPAP set at a Therapy Pressure of 10cm with an EPR setting of 2, then you will inhale at a setting of 10cm and exhale at a setting of 8cm.

How to adjust your EPR setting on your ResMed CPAP (AirSense 11):

1. From your Home Screen press the blue “My Options” icon.
2. Adjust your “Pressure Relief” on or off. That setting should be right under the “ramp” setting.

If you do not see this setting, then you may have to access the Clinical Menu and turn your EPR and Advanced Patient View on. To access the Clinical Menu click here to view our tutorial on that process. The 0-3 adjustment can only be done in the Clinical Menu as well.

Philips Respironics CPAP Exhalation Relief – FLEX

The Flex Setting on Respironics CPAPs and Bipaps has been around for a very long time. It is available in all of their models, and may be referred to as AFLEX or BiFLEX in different models. It is adjusted from 0-3 as well.

How to adjust your Flex Setting on Respironics CPAPs (DreamStation 2):

1. Press the “settings” icon at the bottom of your main home screen. You may have to touch the screen to wake the menu up.
2. In the Settings menu the Flex setting is the 4th setting down. Click on that icon.
3. Change FLEX setting anywhere between off and 3 by pressing the desired setting.

3B Luna CPAP Exhalation Relief – Reslex

How to adjust the Reslex on your 3B CPAP (Luna G3):

1. Scroll all the way to the right on your main screen and click on “settings”
2. Scroll by turning the dial to the right until you are on Reslex
3. Click the reslex selection and turn knob right to adjust setting up and left to adjust the setting down.
4. Click the knob to lock in your changes.
5. Press the home button until you have exited the menu.

For a detailed look at this and other patient level settings in your Luna G3 CPAP you can click here to check out the video we have detailing them.

iBreeze CPAP Exhalation Relief IPR

How to adjust the IPR setting on your iBreeze CPAP:

1. From the main screen twist knob to the right to scroll down to “comfort” selection.
2. Click the comfort selection and the first setting will be IPR.
3. Click on the IPR setting and adjust up by turning knob right and left to turn the setting down.
4. Click knob again to lock in that setting.
5. Scroll until you are highlighted on the back arrow and click the knob to exit.

For a great video instructional on this please click here. 

If you have ever wondered whether your CPAP is still working like it should, then you are not alone. We have customers stop by our office all the time asking us to “check” their CPAP. We take the CPAP in the back, hook it up, and verify that the pressures are correct. It takes us about 2 minutes. So, it finally struck me, maybe we should teach people how to do this on their own. So here we go…  

How to check your CPAP Pressure and Performance:

Checking your CPAP pressure on a simple CPAP Meter is pretty simple. Fortunately, there are inexpensive home versions that CPAP users can use on their own without taking the CPAP back to the provider. You can order one of these manometers by clicking here. Below are the steps to perform the function test of your CPAP:

1. Disconnect the CPAP mask from the CPAP tubing. Be sure that you do not have a quick connector from your mask stuck in the end of the tubing.
2. Plug the CPAP Meter gauge onto the end of the CPAP tube.
3. Turn on the CPAP and hold the CPAP Meter gauge vertically, and as straight as possible.
4. The ball will settle at the pressure your CPAP is pushing out.

 

Things to keep in mind while checking the CPAP pressure:

While this is a very simple process, there are some very simple things to keep in mind.

• Make sure that your Pressure Relief setting is turned off. If you do not do this, the pressure gauge may look a little lower than it should.
• The manometer gauge should be held as perfectly vertically as possible.
• Be sure that there are no leaks from the humidifier all the way to the manometer gauge.
• Be sure that you actually know what setting your CPAP is set at. It won’t help you to determine whether it is blowing the correct pressure if you do not know what pressure it is set at. This can be tricky when you have an Auto-CPAP on some models.

Full disclosure, we are not a Medicare dealer here at CPAPmyway. However, we have well over a decade of experience in that world. So, while you may not need our self-pay CPAP services today, we hope you may come back for non-covered or extra CPAP accessories. Our goal is to help you find what you need, even if that is not us right now. So, let’s jump in below on how to find a Medicare CPAP provider.

Where do I look for a Medicare CPAP Supplier?

There are quite a few of them out there these days, and they are located everywhere. Keep in mind, that even though you have found a Medicare CPAP Supplier, you may still have a few more hurdles to jump through to qualify for Medicare to pay. Click here for a link to what Medicare requires to cover a CPAP machine. To locate a Medicare CPAP supplier, you visit their website by clicking here. If it seems like a hassle and you would like to self-pay, then we are the place to do that. We can help with Home Sleep Testing, CPAP Prescriptions, CPAP Machines, and CPAP Supplies if you want to pay out of pocket.

How do I find a Medicare Supplier near me?

Once you have gone to the Medicare website (here) you will just enter your zip code in the search box. Then set your search radius to your desired setting. After that you will see a list of Medicare CPAP Suppliers in your area. This list will provide you with their address, phone number and a map of their location relative to you. It is always best to call the Medical Equipment provider to see how they deal with new customers.

Will Medicare cover the cost of your CPAP?

The second part of your Medicare CPAP journey is whether or not you meet the criteria for coverage. Those criteria are known as LCDs (Local Coverage Determinations). This criterion sets the minimum standards for you to meet in order for Medicare to pay for your CPAP equipment. It is important to understand this so that you do not end up frustrated. Finding the provider is only half the battle. Your Sleep Physician can usually provide you with the information needed to move forward. You can visit the Medicare LCD website by clicking here.