There are a few Travel CPAP options available these days. Many of which are limited in availability due to nationwide CPAP shortages. However, there are options and it is important to make a good decision. Below is a breakdown of our top 4 Travel CPAP picks for 2022.

 

AirMini Travel CPAP

The AirMini has been around for about 5 years now and I can think of maybe 2 or three units that have ever had an issue over that period of time. We can confidently say that it is a VERY reliable Travel CPAP. Additionally, it is the smallest and the lightest available today. Weighing in at just 0.66 lbs you probably will not even recognize that you packed it in your bag. It is 5.4″ x 3.3″ x 2″ dimensionally, so it literally can fit in the palm of your hand. You are restricted to ResMed brand masks on this Travel CPAP. While that is a limiting factor, ResMed does make some of the best masks on the market. Meaning that quality will not be an issue in your mask selection. It operates at just 25 dBa which is very quiet for a Travel CPAP.

AirMini Pros:

• Very Small and lightweight– You really cannot get any smaller and lighter for a Travel CPAP
• Quieter than some of the cheaper models– We have heard some negative feedback on cheaper Travel CPAP models. Many of those customers chose to upgrade later to the AirMini and noticed much improvement.
• Great AirMini app and connectivity for reporting– You can download the “AirMini App” in iTunes or the google store. It connects via Bluetooth to the AirMini and works really well.
• Very Reliable– We have had so few issues with the AirMini that we would score it a perfect 10 on durability. We even have customers that use it as their primary device. This Travel CPAP is genuinely tried and true.

AirMini Cons:

• You can only use AirMini Masks and accessories– You are restricted to the AirMini Humidx HMEs, the ResMed compatible masks (F20, F30, N20, P10, N30). Additionally, you must use the AirMini Tubing designed to attach to the AirMini.
• HME can be a little loud– While the AirMini itself is very quiet, we have had some complaints on the sound of your breathing in the HME. It still is one of the quietest options but keep that in mind.
• Can be a little pricier– If you are looking for the cheapest option, then this one may not be for you. ResMed is known for quality and durability. So naturally, they are usually a bit more expensive.

DreamStation Go Travel CPAP

This has been one of our favorites for a very long time now. Unfortunately, at the time we are writing this blog it is unavailable. We hope to have it as an option again very soon. The DreamStation Go Travel CPAP is our “Go To” for CPAP users that want a travel CPAP for everyday use. That is because it is quiet, durable, and can be paired with a Heated Humidifier. Many other Travel CPAPs can only use an HME. While an HME can work well it is not the best option for everyday use. It has a really nice touchscreen, and a very simple operation. While it is a little larger than some other options you have to keep in mind that the converter brick is built in to the DreamStation go. That means that you don’t have to have that bulky power cord. It weighs 1.86 lbs and is 5.94″L x 5.94″W x 2.32″H dimensionally. Another great feature on this Travel CPAP option is that you can pair it with a home DreamStation CPAP in the software. This means that your compliance information can be combined into one report on both devices. This is great for truck drivers, and users that require compliance reporting.

DreamStation Go Pros:

• Reliability– This travel CPAP is also extremely reliable. We have had very few issues over the years.
• Very quiet– The DreamStation Go is very quiet and does not have any noisy HME. Probably the quietest Travel CPAP option that we carry.
• Use any CPAP mask or HME– It has a standard 22mm tubing connection. This means that you can use any standard CPAP tubing, any CPAP mask, and any HME with 22mm connection. That is pretty much everything.
• Great Compliance reporting– Whether you are using the DreamStation Go alone or in conjunction with a home DreamStation CPAP, you can get great compliance reporting. It connects easily to the DreamMapper app via Bluetooth and relays great reporting directly to your smart phone.
• Smallest and lightest tubing available– The DreamStation go comes with a 12mm tubing that is so thin and lightweight you probably won’t feel tube drag at all. This tubing only fits the DreamStation Go so you can only use it with this Travel CPAP.
• Heated Humidifier Option- You can connect the Heated humidifier when at home and leave it when you hit the road. This gives you a lot of versatility.
• Integrated Battery Option- The battery option for the DreamStation Go is super easy and works great.

DreamStation Go Cons:

• It is a little heavy– While it isn’t heavy in comparison to a home CPAP it is to other Travel options. At 1.86 lbs it is almost 3 times heavier than the AirMini Travel CPAP.
• Currently unavailable– After an issue with the foam Philips has decided to replace or repair all of these unit. Until they have completed the recall this unit will be unavailable. You can click here to check current stock any time. We hope to have them back in stock in the months to come.
• Not the smallest option– In addition to the weight it is also a little larger than other options. We think the versatility outweighs the size difference, but it is something to consider.

Transcend 3 Travel CPAP:

The Transend 3 Travel CPAP is made by Somnetics. Somnetics was the original Travel CPAP maker. They have a great track record of durability and longevity. They even have the longest warranty of any Travel CPAP made. The Transcend 3 is a very simple design without a whole lot of bells and whistles. For those needing a good CPAP for an affordable price this model is worth considering. It weighs just over 1 pound and is 7.5″ x 3.7″ x 3.7″, so it packs away with ease. Additionally, the Transcend 3 comes with universal power adapter for the entire world. No need to source adapters and connectors.

Transcend 3 Pros:

• Less costly than high end models– The Transcend 3 gives you the ability to travel much easier than with a home CPAP at a very affordable price.
• Simple use and design– There are no special bells, whistles, settings or buttons. This Travel CPAP is as simple as on and off.
• Universal power supplies– The adapters for all mainstream areas in the world are included. Hit the road to the UK, or to India without having to purchase extra electrical adapters.
• Universal connection– It incorporates a standard 22mm connection. This means that you can use any standard CPAP tubing as well as any CPAP mask. No Special parts needed.

Transcend 3 Cons;

• No reporting ability– There is no special app or easy to use compliance software. If you need compliance reporting, this may not be the model for you.
• A bit more audible– I can’t say that the transcend 3 is loud, it just isn’t as quiet as the higher end models. If you are a very light sleeper or sleep next to one, you should consider the noise level.
• No humidifier option– Somnetics no longer makes a heated humidifier for this model. This means that you can only use an HME (heat moisture exchanger) for humidification on this Travel CPAP.

Z2 Travel CPAP

The Z2 Travel CPAP is another very lightweight and small device. It weighs just .5 lbs and is just 6.3″ X 3.5″ X 2″ dimensionally. You would probably have an easier time losing it in your travel bag than noticing that it was there. It does have Bluetooth for connection to the nitelog app where you can track your results. It also has a universal 22 mm connection so that you can use any mask on the market with your Z2.

Z2 Pros:

• Very small and lightweight– You really can’t get much smaller or lighter in the CPAP world. This is a great option for those with limited space or weight restriction while traveling.
• Affordable pricing– The Z2 is a great mid-level priced Travel CPAP. It is affordable and still has some great features that make it very modern.
• Universal connection– With the universal adapter the Z2 Travel CPAP can connect to any standard tubing and CPAP mask.
• Great battery setup– The Z2 power shell integrates really well with the Z2 and will run the CPAP up to two nights without power.

Z2 Cons:

• Can be a little loud– The Q-tube adapter (included with Z2) helps, but we have had enough noise complaints on this model to mention that for sure.
• Different algorithm– In the auto mode we have had a few customers that did not like the way that it adjusted to their breathing. You do have the option of setting your algorithm to be more or less aggressive, but many have had trouble navigating that setting.
• Not a great primary unit– We have not had a very good track record on this unit when used as a primary unit. Great for travel, but not so great if you work it too hard.

AirSense 11 CPAP

ResMed has officially introduced the new AirSense 11 CPAP. Luckily, here are CPAPmyway we were able to participate in the limited early release of the AirSense 11. This has allowed us to get feedback and experience with hundreds of customers on this new CPAP. Some of these customers were first time users, and many of them are long-time users that have upgraded. Reviews so far have been great, and we expect that feedback to continue. This new CPAP is much smaller than the previous model which means that it gives you a bit more space on the nightstand. It has a much more modern design and features a great new touchscreen.

What’s new on the AirSense 11 CPAP:

When ResMed was designing the AirSense 11 they had a problem. The AirSense 10 has been one of the most loved CPAP machines of all time. So how can you improve something without throwing out all the things that everyone loved about the original. Well, ResMed figured it out. The AirSense 11 has some striking upgrades as well as some really nice similarities to what we loved about the AirSense 10. ResMed kept the front-facing screen which is very popular, the integrated humidifier system, and simple operation.

AirSense 11 Upgrades:

• Full color touchscreen allows you to navigate the patient level menu with ease. Touchscreen is a must on pretty much all devices today. My kids don’t even understand what is happening when they can’t navigate a menu with touchscreen.
• Over the air communication allows the AirSense 11 not only to communicate compliance and therapy data with ease, but also low allows for software upgrades wirelessly as well.
• Smaller footprint on the nightstand– The Air11 is about 25% smaller than the previous model. Meaning you have more space for all those other things you keep on the nightstand. Additionally the smaller footprint allows for a smaller travel case. Saving you room and effort when traveling.
• 3 CPAPs in one– The Auto version of the AirSense 11 features not only the ResMed Auto Titrating CPAP algorithm, but also can be run in fixed CPAP mode and AutoSet for her Auto Titrating mode.

How to change the settings on my AirSense 11:

There are a few settings that allow you to personalize your AirSense. Some of these functions may not be available if they have been restricted by the provider. In order to make the changes you must first access the menu by tapping the “My Options” selection on the Home screen. Next you would tap the parameter that you wish to change. Then tap the setting you wish to change to and then tap OK to confirm the change. You can also tap Cancel to go back to the previous screen.

• Ramp Time: Period during which the pressure increases from a low start pressure to the prescribed treatment pressure. Ramp Time can be set to Off, 5 to 45 minutes (in 5-minute increments), or Auto.
• Pressure Relief: When EPR (Expiratory Pressure Relief) is enabled, you may find it easier to breathe out. This setting can help you get used to therapy.
• SmartStart: When SmartStart is enabled, therapy starts automatically when you breathe into your mask.
• SmartStop: When SmartStop is enabled, therapy stops automatically after a few seconds when you remove your mask.
• Mask Fit: This function helps you assess and identify possible air leaks around your mask.

How to Set Up your AirSense 11 CPAP:

1. Place the Air11 on a stable and level surface
2. Connect the power cord into the power inlet at the rear of the device. Connect one end of the power cord into the AC adaptor and the other end into the power outlet. Ensure the device is set up and connected to power to enable settings to be applied wirelessly to the device if required.
3. Connect the air tubing firmly to the outlet connector at the rear of the device.
4. Open the humidifier tub and fill it with water.
   • The humidifier tub must be removed from the device before adding water.
   • If using the HumidAir 11 Cleanable water tub, use drinking quality water (potable).
   • Fill the water tub up to the maximum water level mark. The humidifier tub has a maximum capacity of 380 mL.
5. Close the humidifier tub and insert it into the side of the device.
6. Connect the free end of the air tubing firmly onto the assembled mask.

How to Clean and Maintain your AirSense 11:

Many CPAP users have their own methods and habits for maintaining their CPAP machines. Our opinion is that if you have had no issues with your current methods for cleaning and maintaining your CPAP, then you can apply those same methods to the new AirSense 11 without concern. However, there is a “right way” to Clean and Maintain your CPAP according to ResMed. Below is the ResMed recommendation. All of this can be found in the ResMed AirSense 11 User Manual as well.

Daily: 

1. Empty the humidifier tub and wipe it thoroughly with a clean disposable cloth. Allow it to dry out of direct sunlight.
2. Refill the humidifier tub.

• If using the HumidAir 11 Standard water tub, use distilled water only
• If using the HumidAir 11 Cleanable water tub, use drinking quality water (potable).

Weekly:

1. Wash the components as described:
   • Air tubing – in warm water using a mild dishwashing liquid.
   • Humidifier tub – in warm water using a mild dishwashing liquid OR in a solution with a ratio of 1 part vinegar and 9 parts water at room temperature.
   • Outlet connector – in warm water using a mild dishwashing liquid OR in a solution with a ratio of 1 part vinegar and 9 parts water at room temperature.
   • Components should not be washed in temperatures higher than 131ºF (55ºC).
2. Rinse each component thoroughly in water.
3. Allow to dry out of direct sunlight or heat
4. Wipe the exterior of the device with a dry cloth.

Notes:

• The humidifier tub and outlet connector may be washed in a dishwasher.
• Do not wash the air tubing in a dishwasher or washing machine.
• The air filter is not washable or reusable.

Click here to learn about AirSense 11 Humidifier System

Luna 2 CPAP Download:

For many CPAP users downloading the data from your CPAP is very important. So, whether you need a compliance report for your DOT medical card, your doctor follow-up, or just to see for yourself, we can help. The Luna 2 CPAP has a really nice web-based platform that will allow you to download the clinical and usage details from the CPAP. From there you can create summary reports that will provide everything that you need.

How to Download the Luna 2 CPAP:

Step 1:

Remove your SD card from the back of the Luna 2 CPAP. It is located directly behind the screen at the top of the machine.

Step 2:

Insert the SD card into your computer. You may need an adapter if your computer does not have a SD card slot. The computer must also be connected to the internet so that you can access the website.

Step 3:

Open a web browser (edge or chrome work well) and go to www.icodeconnect.com. There you can click on the “quick report” button.

Step 4:

Enter your information in the “Patient information” section. Then enter the start date. This date would be the date that you originally began using the Luna 2. If you don’t know the exact date and it has been longer than the date span that you need for the report. Then it is ok to estimate the date.

Step 5:

Click SD card radio button and then press the next button. This will bring you to a page to select the file where your SD card is located.

Step 6:

Navigate to the location of the data card and double click the file to upload the data. After that you simply click “next” to import the data to the cloud.

Step 7:

You should now see a summary page showing you the data from the download. To create the report from this data you will select your date range and click the “generate report” button. You will now see a PDF compliance and therapy report from your usage on the Luna 2 CPAP.  

Choosing the best CPAP Mask can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. There are a few quick questions that you can ask yourself to simplify things. The right CPAP mask can be the most important decision that you make regarding your CPAP therapy. That is because many of the “issues” that people have with CPAP therapy boil down to mask issues. Let’s dive in a little deeper.

Best CPAP Mask for Mouth Breathers

One of the first things that you should ask yourself when looking for the best CPAP mask is whether or not you are a mouth-breather. But how would you know if you breathe through your mouth. For many that is an easy question to answer. If the answer to that is “yes”, then you should narrow down your focus to a Full-Face CPAP Mask. There are quite a few Full-Face versions that we will detail below. For others that question may not be so simple. So, let’s look over some tell-tale signs of mouth breathing.

Signs of Mouth Breathing:

• Dry mouth upon waking up in the morning.
• Bed partner tells you that you breathe through your mouth while sleeping.
• If you cannot breathe effortlessly for 1 minute through you nose while awake.
• If you start CPAP on a nasal mask but wake with severe dry mouth.

Best CPAP Mask for people who feel claustrophobic

If you know right off the jump that you cannot stand things on your face, then you still have some great CPAP Mask options. The best mask option for people in this boat are minimal contact masks. Minimal contact masks are available in Nasal Pillow styles, Nasal style, as well as Full Face styles. Here are some options with links below:

• Best Nasal Pillow style for claustrophobia– Keeping as much out of your face and keeping it light are very important to CPAP users feeling closed in. Two masks come to mind right away. The AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow mask is extremely lightweight and very quiet. Only downside is that the tubing is still on the front of your face. The DreamWear Nasal Pillow moves the tubing above your head and also keep everything out of your line of sight.
• Best Nasal Style for claustrophobia– The AirFit N30 and the DreamWisp are great nasal style CPAP masks. The N30 is similar to the P10 with a comfortable cradle cushion. It is lightweight and simple to use and provides a completely open line of sight. The DreamWisp is a much more classic style Nasal CPAP Mask. It also has a very open line of sight and additionally moves the tubing to the top of your head to keep as much out of your face as possible.
• Best Full-Face option for claustrophobia– When you think “full-face” you certainly don’t think of open line of sight at all. However, there have been some great new options in this category lately. The DreamWear Full and F30i Full are both really nice options. Both incorporate an over-the-head tubing attachment and seal under the nose. This allows you to breathe through mouth and nose without anything over the bridge of your nose. Another great option is the Amara View. This mask is best for people who want minimal contact, but do not like the top of the head tubing attachment.

What is the best CPAP Mask for people who can’t exhale on CPAP?

For many CPAP users exhaling can seem difficult on CPAP. That feeling usually goes away with time and with adjustments to comfort settings in your CPAP. However, for many that feeling does not go away. In those cases, the best CPAP mask option is usually to go bigger. That may seem contradictory, but it is true. Exhaling through small nasal pillow holes or into a small mask can feel restrictive. That is because smaller style masks have a much smaller void to exhale into. Moving from a nasal pillow mask to a standard nasal or from a standard nasal to a full face can make a huge difference.

Best Full-Face CPAP Mask

If you are a mouth-breather or just want to use a CPAP mask that “gets the job done”, then a full-face style may be your best CPAP mask option. A full-face CPAP mask allows you to breathe through your mouth, nose or both. For many this is the best mask option because it gives them a more “normal” breathing feeling. There are two distinctly different style of full-face mask: traditional full face, and minimal contact full-face. We will detail those style below so you can determine the best mask option for you.

• Traditional style full-face– Some top picks in this category are the AirFit F20 and the Vitera. This style of full-face CPAP mask covers both the mouth and nose. It seals below the mouth, against the inside of the cheeks, and over the bridge of the nose. For many CPAP users this style provides a “set-it and forget-it” CPAP experience. It seals very well in most cases and allows you to breathe through your mouth or nose easily. On the contrary, many CPAP users do not like that much mask on their face or around their eyes. In those cases, a minimal contact style may be the way to go.
• Minimal Contact style full-face- Some of the most popular version of this are the Amara View, AirFit F30 and the DreamWear Full. This style allows you experience the benefits of the traditional full without the restrictive feeling it can give you. This is because the minimal contact style seals under the nose in a cradle fashion. You can still breathe easily through the mouth or nose. There are options that allow you to attach your tubing above the head or on the front of your mask. This gives you options so that you can determine what the best mask is for you.

Best Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask

For a very long-time nasal pillow masks have seemed to be the best option for a bunch of CPAP users. This is because this is the simplest and least invasive style. Nasal pillow CPAP masks feature small little buds that seal against nostrils on the outside of your nose. They are usually very lightweight and simple to use. They are especially good for CPAP users that have lower pressures or for people that just want the most minimal amount on their face. Pillow masks are available in front tube attachment and attachment over the head. For some however, nasal pillow masks can make exhalation difficult. In that case a standard nasal mask may be a better option

Our Top Nasal Pillow picks

• Brevida Nasal Pillow– This nasal pillow mask is a bit of a hybrid design. Not only does it seal on the nostril, but it also provides a secondary seal under the nose. This means that you can get a great seal without over-tightening the headgear. It is also very lightweight and very quiet.
• P10 Nasal Pillow mask– This mask has a very similar design to the brevida, but seals right on the nostrils. So, there is very little on the face. It is also very lightweight and quiet. The P10 also now has adjustable stretch headgear which makes the headgear ultra-simple.
• DreamWear Nasal Pillow– This nasal pillow gives you an extremely low-profile fit, because the tube connection is on top of the head. It is great for side and even stomach sleepers.

Best Nasal CPAP Mask

The nasal CPAP mask is probably the most widely used. While they aren’t the best CPAP Mask for everyone, they are for many. That is probably because they are simple and effective. Most nasal masks are traditional and surround the nose completely. However, there is also a style now that is more minimal. Similar to the minimal contact full face, the minimal contact nasal masks cradle under the nose. Truthfully, those two sub-styles of nasal mask are almost completely different styles all-together. So, let’s break them down a bit.

• Traditional Nasal Masks– This style includes masks like the Eson 2, DreamWisp, and AirFit N20. The three listed here are dramatically different, but all seal around the nose and over the bridge of the nose. This style provides a great seal in most cases and allows for very easy nasal breathing. They usually have a secure fit because most of them feature 4-point headgear. This keeps the mask in place even if you toss and turn quite a bit.
• Minimal Contact Nasal Masks– This version seals under the nose and avoids the contact at the bridge of the nose. It features masks like the Evora, the DreamWear cradle, and the N30. This style is best for CPAP users that want the simplicity of a nasal mask, but do not want anything in front of their eyes or over the bride of the nose. The only downside on this style is that they can move around on the face a bit if you toss and turn. That is because of how minimal the headgear is on this style.

Sleep Apnea can be debilitating for people suffering from it. There are a ton of side effects from a lack of sleep and even more from long term Sleep Apnea. In this blog we are going to discuss the signs of Sleep Apnea, side effects, and issues that arise from long-term Sleep Apnea.

What exactly is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep Apnea is when your airway closes off and you stop breathing while you sleep. When you sleep your muscles relax allowing your airway to close off momentarily. For it to be considered Apnea the breathing must stop for at least 10 seconds. Of course, when you stop breathing your oxygen levels drop and your body forces you to wake up or at least partially wake up. This means that not only are you stressing your heart and body from low oxygen, but you are not getting proper sleep. There are a ton of issues that can arise from Sleep Apnea.

Are there different types of Sleep Apnea?

There are different types of Sleep Apnea. The main form of Sleep Apnea is Obstructive Sleep Apnea. There is also a type of Sleep Apnea known as Central Sleep Apnea which we can explain later. Sleep Apnea is gauged by your AHI (Apnea Hypopnea Index) which is the amount of Apnea you have per hour on average. That is averaged by totaling all of your Apneas and your Hypopneas and dividing that total by the number or hours you slept.

Types of Sleep Apnea:

• Obstructive Apnea– This is when you stop breathing for at least 10 seconds before resuming.
• Hypopneas– This is a partial restriction of your breathing with the addition of your oxygen levels dropping at the same time
• Central Apnea– This is when you stop breathing, but it is because your brain isn’t telling you to breath. This type of apnea is very serious and needs to be treated with particular therapies that your doctor would set up.

Does everyone have Sleep Apnea?

We are asked this question by a TON of customers here. To answer this question, I will offer some statistical info as well as some personal experience. We coordinate a bunch of Home Sleep Testing with a few Board-Certified Sleep Physicians. When we receive the results back, we note whether the person has Sleep Apnea or not. You must keep in mind that people testing with us have one of two reasons for that: they think that they have Sleep Apnea personally, or someone else thinks that they have Sleep Apnea. Out of this predisposed group of people we have seen a 60/40 split on most months. 60% have Sleep Apnea and 40% don’t. Additionally, my wife and I both tested for Sleep Apnea. I came back in the normal range, and she came back with Mild Sleep Apnea. So, the answer is no. But how would you know if you do?

What are the symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

The symptoms of Sleep Apnea are very wide ranging. That is because restful sleep and breathing are both very important parts to a healthy life. If you have Sleep Apnea you stop breathing and get terrible sleep. So those two issues can show up in a number of ways.

Signs of Sleep Apnea:

• Being tired during the day
• Falling asleep during normal daytime activities
• Snoring while sleeping
• Noticeable pause of more than 10 seconds while asleep
• Poor blood test results
• Tossing and turning in your sleep
• Grinding your teeth while sleeping
• Dry Mouth in the morning

What happens if you don’t treat Sleep Apnea?

This question can also have very wide-ranging results. Again, if you deprive your body of oxygen and continually miss out on sleep, your body will suffer. These issues can also snowball leading to other problems. For instance: not sleeping can lead to weight gain and weight gain can lead to all sorts of problems. There have been so many studies linking Sleep Apnea to all sorts of other diagnosis and comorbidities that we could not scratch the surface listing them here. However, there are some big issues that jump out.

Top issues from untreated Sleep Apnea:

• High Blood Pressure
• Kidney Disease
• Lung Disease
• Stroke and Heart Failure
• Weight gain from metabolic issues

Personal Experience with treating Sleep Apnea:

I am a pretty skeptical in regard to pretty much everything. I really just have to experience something myself before I will get behind it. So, my wife and I decided to try our process for ourselves. My wife, Caitlin, and I took home our Sleep Apnea Tests and went through the process. I tested negative and had really consistent heart rate and blood oxygen through the night. She showed mild Sleep Apnea and her heart rate and oxygen were very inconsistent. The doctor interpreting the results recommended that she try CPAP therapy. She was not convinced and decided not to do that (even though tons of our customers use and love CPAP). After about 6 months she finally gave CPAP a try. She started with a nasal mask and only got about 3 hours of sleep on the CPAP before taking it off. Even with that little usage she was a different person that morning. She progressed to using a full-face mask and wearing the CPAP through the entire night over about 2 weeks of acclimation. She noticed quite a few positive things, and now will not even travel without taking her CPAP along to use while sleeping.

What did Caitlin Experience?

• Stopped grinding her teeth while Sleeping– This really affected me as much as her, but she noticed a lot less jaw pain during the day because of that.
• No more snoring– She didn’t snore bad enough to wake me up, but I always tried to get asleep before her to avoid hearing it.
• More morning energy– She has always been more of a night owl and definitely not a morning person. That changed significantly when she started CPAP. She had much more alertness in the morning and went to bed much earlier. She says that she even falls asleep much faster when wearing the CPAP.

What can I do to help my Sleep Apnea?

The truth about Sleep Apnea is that in most cases it is due to being overweight. That means that the first and most effective thing that you can do is lose weight. However, that can be tough to do when you aren’t sleeping. We have all seen that move with the fat guy saying, “I eat because I’m unhappy, and I’m unhappy because I eat”. Well, dealing with Sleep Apnea can be a lot like that. You might be saying, “I don’t exercise because I’m so tired”. Well, there is some truth to that. If you’re not sleeping, your metabolism suffers, which leads to more weight gain and a MUCH tougher time losing weight. In some cases, we have had customers start CPAP therapy, and then be able to stop using CPAP after losing a lot of weight.

Things to help reduce Sleep Apnea:

• No alcohol before bedtime
• Weight loss
• Avoiding sedatives around bedtime
• Exercising
• Sitting up in bed while sleeping

What is Heated Tubing for CPAP?

Heated Tubing for CPAP machines in a fairly common addition to CPAP Therapy. Heated Tubes are designed to keep a stable temperature and humidity level from the outlet of the CPAP to your airway. It does this using heated coils that are powered by a connection to the CPAP machine. In most cases the Heated Tube will connect to the CPAP via a small electric plug. You can adjust the temperature of your CPAP tube to reduce condensation and to keep the air you are breathing comfortably humidified.

Do I need Heated Tubing for my CPAP?

Whether or not to add a Heated Tube to your CPAP is usually a pretty clear choice. For most CPAP users it is important to strike a comfortable balance of humidity in the air that you are breathing. As you adjust the humidity setting up on your CPAP you may encounter rain-out or excess condensation. That is because the CPAP is adding more humidity than your rooms ambient temperature can hold. It literally rains in your tube because the air cools as it travels through the tube to your airway. To remedy this, a heated tube will keep a constant temperature the whole way through so that the rainout doesn’t happen.

Why did I receive Heated CPAP Tubing with my order?

In many cases a heated tube is a standard part of a CPAP order. That is because it allows the CPAP user to add more humidity than would normally be possible in your ambient room conditions. In many cases this will help a new CPAP user to acclimate more easily to CPAP therapy. In other cases, you may receive heated tubing because it pays more. Whether you are purchasing with cash or using insurance heated tubing costs more. So be careful. If you do not need heated tubing, then you may want to look into standard CPAP tubing in an effort to reduce long term cost of your CPAP therapy.

Can I switch to Standard CPAP Tubing from Heated Tubing?

Yes, you can. You might even save some money! The biggest question that you need to answer related to that switch is whether or not you will get enough humidity with a standard CPAP tube. The only way to know is to try. You can substitute the standard CPAP tube for your heated tube. Then adjust the humidity to your comfort and see if you have condensation issues. Much of that issue can be related to your location in the world as well as the time of year. Some areas and sometimes of the year may be drier or more humid as well as colder or warmer. Your needs can change seasonally as well as where you are located.

What are the downsides to Heated CPAP Tubing?

Heated tubing for a CPAP can be very helpful, but is it always a better option? Let’s look at the downsides.

• Weight– Heated tubes are quite a bit heavier than standard tubing. That means that if you move around a lot in your bed, you will be pulling a considerably heavier tube with you.
• Flexibility– Standard CPAP tubing is much thinner and in turn much more flexible. That gives you a little more freedom of movement in bed while using your CPAP.
• Cost– Heated tubing is at least 4 times more expensive than standard tubing. For instance, standard tubing runs less than $10 per tube while heated tubing can be as much as $49. Even if you are operating through insurance the cost difference is significant. To determine the difference in insurance cost you would compare the A4604 (heated tube) procedure code to the A7037 (standard tube) procedure code.

How do I get the right Heated Tube for my CPAP?

Every CPAP that has a heated tubing option must use a specific type designed for that particular CPAP. For instance, the AirSense 10 CPAP from ResMed must use the ClimateLine Air Heated Tube. Because these tubes connect in a very particular way to the CPAP, they are not universal. With that being said, not all CPAPs have a heated tubing option. An example of that would be the AirMini Travel CPAP from ResMed. You can only use the standard non-heated tubing that is designed for the AirMini with that particular device. If you require heated tubing, you should certainly do some homework to make sure that your new CPAP has that option.

Can I use oxygen with my Heated Tube?

You can use oxygen with the heated tube. However, you will need to place your oxygen adapter at the junction of the CPAP mask and tubing instead of at the air outlet on the CPAP. You may also be able to purcahse a specific heated tube with oxygen adapter. Such as the ClimatelineAirOxy tube. Additionally, we have a great video that goes over How to Connect your CPAP to Oxygen that you can watch here. 

Downloading your iBreeze CPAP Data

The iBreeze CPAP machine is extremely new to the CPAP world here in the US. Because of that, not only are customers reaching out about compliance downloads, but so are our competitors. So, we figured it would be best to put out a full tutorial to explain how to use the iBreeze Compliance system. Currently, there are two versions of the iBreeze CPAP. The first is the standard SD card version which will only allow you to upload data via the SD card. The other version has a WIFI option, and it will allow you to link your iBreeze CPAP your home WIFI. The WIFI option will automatically upload your data so that your CPAP provider or doctor can view the data remotely.

What Software do I use to download the iBreeze CPAP?

There are two ways to produce a compliance and therapy report on your iBreeze CPAP machine. The first is via the local software option. That software is called the iMatrix Compliance system. We will explain that in detail below. The next and better option is to use the cloud-based version of that software which is called ResAssist. We will go into detail on that option below as well.

iMatrix Software for the iBreeze:

The first step to using the iMatrix software is to download and install it on your computer. It is a pretty large file. So, you may need to use the Zip tool to perform the download. A link to the iMatrix software can be found in the Product Specifications section of the iBreeze CPAP listing on our site. Once you have downloaded the software to your computer, you can then open it up and get started. Once you open the software you can add yourself as a patient and enter your iBreeze CPAP serial number. Then you will be able to use the Download function to pull the data from your SD card. Once you have that information uploaded to the software you can pull compliance and therapy reports for any time frame you need.

ResAssist Cloud software for iBreeze:

The cloud-based software for the iBreeze is called ResAssist. You can access that via the website; however, you will need login credentials. Those credentials should come from your CPAP supplier. Here at CPAPmyway we give you access with a username of your patient ID number and password of CPAPmyway. Then you can change those credentials on your own after logging in. We also preemptively load your iBreeze CPAP information into the cloud so that you have immediate access for downloading your data. If you are using a WIFI enabled unit you will be able to see the data, there and can produce reports. If you are using the SD version of the iBreeze then you will be able to use the “Upload Data” function to upload your CPAP data via the SD card. When you click the Upload Data button, then you will select the SD card on your computer and the data will populate.

Creating the Compliance and Therapy Report on iBreeze software:

Producing the report is pretty simple in the software. You can simply hit the “Create Report” button on the right side of the screen. Then you will see a preview report. Next you will select the appropriate Report Date Range for your needs. Once you get the right range, just hit print. You will be able to print a nice clean PDF that will show you everything that you or your doctor need. Your Compliance Percentage will be found in the > 4 hours days section.  

  Whether you call it APAP, Auto CPAP or Auto-Titrating CPAP you get the same result. For the sake of the article, we will call it Auto CPAP. Auto CPAP is a form of Positive Airway Pressure therapy. In the Auto mode the CPAP machine will adjust to the best pressure for your needs every night. This therapy is by far the most widely used at this point. Very few CPAP users are going the route of a Lab Study, Titration, and fixed pressure CPAP therapy.

Why is Auto CPAP the best Choice?

You always should consult with your doctor to determine what therapy option is best for you and your Sleep Apnea needs. With that being said almost all of the Sleep doctors that we work with are ordering Auto CPAP instead of Fixed Pressure CPAP. This is because of a few different factors:

1. Insurance Authorizations for Sleep Studies– In many cases your insurance carrier will not authorize a Lab Sleep Study. This is where you spend the night in a lab. These are very expensive, and the Home Sleep Test options have become much more accurate and cheaper. If you do a Home Sleep Test, then you must use an Auto CPAP due to the fact that you cannot be titrated for Fixed Pressure CPAP in the lab.
2. It actually works– Not only does Auto-CPAP allow you to titrate in your own home, but it actually will report on how well it is working. You can follow up with your doctor after using Auto CPAP for a few weeks and they will be able to tell you how well your therapy is working for you. If it isn’t then you can work with that doctor to take next steps.
3. Things Change– Whether you have gained or lost weight, drank alcohol before bed, or started new medications, your sleep can change with time. The nice thing about Auto CPAP is that it will change with you. So, if you lose weight and need less pressure or got sloshed on Busch light and need more pressure, the Auto CPAP will make the adjustment.

How does Auto CPAP work?

All Auto CPAPs have their own proprietary algorithm that monitors your breathing and adjusts the pressure accordingly to account for Apnea. To simplify that all the way down, as you stop breathing (Apnea) the pressure increases slightly until your airways are opened. The differences between Auto models usually have to do with how quickly the unit adjusts and by how much. Some models adjust up and down slowly so that you can adjust more easily. These models are great for first time users. Other models are more aggressive and will adjust more dramatically. These models are great for Severe Sleep Apnea and those that are already accustomed to CPAP therapy. Many models allow you to select a more aggressive or less aggressive algorithm to help you find a more comfortable CPAP therapy.

What is the difference between CPAP and Auto CPAP?

CPAP is usually referring to a Fixed pressure CPAP. This means that when you turn on the CPAP it will go to one pressure and stay there at all times. That pressure is usually determined by a Sleep Lab Titration Study. Auto CPAP is a CPAP that Automatically adjusts to the best pressure for you on a nightly basis. This means that no matter what you night is like, your Auto CPAP will work to provide the most suitable pressure for your therapy needs.

What is the downside to Auto CPAP?

While there are a lot of great things to love about Auto CPAP therapy, there are downsides:

1. It takes time– The first issue is that it takes a little time to adjust itself to your best pressure. For many long-term CPAP users this can be a big problem. If you are accustomed to a certain pressure on your old CPAP, and you switch to Auto CPAP it will take time to adjust. More than likely, it will get to a comfortable pressure over the first week or two.
2. New CPAP users give up– Another issue with a delay in proper therapy pressure is new users giving up before they get proper therapy. If you are starting CPAP and wake up feeling the exact same, it can be frustrating. So, when new users begin on Auto CPAP and do not get past those initial few days out of frustration they may quit.
3. Maybe you need more than a CPAP– For some people suffering from Severe Sleep Apnea you may need more than just a CPAP. This would be easily determined in a Lab Study but may not be if you did a Home Sleep Test and started Auto CPAP at home. That is why it is important to keep a close eye on your Therapy Data from your Auto CPAP report to make sure that you get a proper reduction in your Sleep Apnea.

How do I know if Auto CPAP is working for me?

The most important thing is to treat the Sleep Apnea. Luckily, almost all of the newer Auto CPAP models record and report on your therapy in detail. These detailed reports will allow you and your doctor to monitor your Usage and Therapy to determine how well it is working. You will see things like AHI, Mask Leak, Hours of Use, and more. You and your doctor can use this information to make certain that you are receiving benefit from you Auto CPAP. If you are not, your doctor can help you move to a therapy more suitable to your needs.  

DreamStation 2 Foam Update

We have had a ton of customers asking us about the new DreamStation 2 CPAP Foam. As distributors of Philps Respironics products, we do our best to provide information to our customers as we receive it. This means that we are passing along the information from Philps Respironics and the FDA. We understand that many have reservations trusting these sources. That is certainly understandable. However, we must move forward with the information that we have at hand. So here we go.

Did the Dreamstation 2 Foam fail an FDA inspection?

According to Philips, the FDA did inspect their manufacturing plant and tested some of the devices there to ensure that they passed required metrics. During that inspection there was a device that failed the VOC (volatile organic compounds) limits. Many people read that FDA inspection and assumed that the device that failed was a DreamStation 2 CPAP. Using that assumption, many theorized that the DreamStation 2 CPAP would be recalled next. Fortunately, that was not the case. Philips Respironics announced that the device that failed inspection was not a DreamStation 2 CPAP. The device was an unreleased version of an A-Series Bipap. They also reiterated that the DreamStation 2 Foam as well as the foam used in the repair kits have passed all necessary inspections and are safe.

What kind of foam is in the Dreamstation 2 CPAP?

Obviously, you would not want to use the same foam in the DreamStation 2 CPAP as the DreamStation original version. Luckily, Philips went with a completely different version. The original foam found in the DreamStation 1 was a PE-PUR (Polyester based polyurethane) Foam. This original foam produced VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) that could be harmful to people breathing them in. The Foam found in the new DreamStation 2 CPAP is a Silicone based foam. This new silicone-based foam has been inspected by the FDA and has been approved for use in the DreamStation 2 CPAP.

Can ozone hurt my DreamStation 2 CPAP?

One of the largest contributors to the foam breakdown (according to Philips) was use of Ozone on the CPAP. The long-term use of Ozone can be harmful over time. Ozone is Ionized Oxygen, and that is certainly a corrosive element. This means that over time it can break down metals and plastics. That will obviously cause early breakdowns of your CPAP. That is obviously something that you should consider. For many CPAP users a cleaner like the SoClean has been a great option for them and has been really beneficial. So, you would need to weigh out the consequences of using Ozone on your CPAP verses the benefit of the integrated Cleaners. Additionally, both ResMed and Philips have issued statements that they do not recommend using Ozone to clean their CPAPs. They have even stated that it may void your warranty.

What other options do I have for Cleaning my DreamStation 2 CPAP?

Philips recommends that you use a soap and water mix for cleaning the washable portions of your CPAP. They do not recommend any cleaning of the CPAP device itself, outside of wiping it down. Check out our DreamStation 2 Maintenance video here. With that being said, there are ozone options that do not intrude into your DreamStation 2 foam. Those cleaners use a separate bag and clean the cleanable parts separately from the CPAP machine. This keeps the ozone outside of your CPAP. One great option for this is the Sleep8 CPAP Cleaner. You can also use UV Cleaners such as the Liviliti CPAP Cleaner.

The most recent update for the DreamStation Recall

It has been a long 6-7 months in the CPAP world. Most of that due to the unprecedented recall from Philips Respironics. With that being said, there are some relevant updates. Here is what you need to know.

Recent FDA Inspection Findings for DreamStation Recall:

Philips has received a lot of questions regarding the FDA’s published Form 483 report. That is because in that report the FDA documented that a Philips Respironics unit failed the VOC (Volatile Organic Compound) test. That was extremely concerning, because that was the major reason for the initial recall. Many people assumed that the VOC test failure was on the DreamStation 2 CPAP. Fortunately, it was not. The unit that failed was an unreleased design for a specific A-Series Bipap. Thankfully, the DreamStation 2 CPAP as well as the repair kits for DreamStation 1 CPAPs are all still approved as safe and effective.

Updated Recall Patient Recommendations:

When Philips initially announced the recall back in June 2021, the notice said, “Stop using your device immediately”. That was a pretty big shock to DreamStation CPAP users. It was also a pretty scary thing to say. Since that announcement the FDA and Philips have worked together and decided to change that recommendation. Now the recommendation says to “Consult with your Physician”. See the FDA recommendations here. That is a big change for DreamStation users. This means that they believe the risk of something bad happening because of an affected device may not be as potentially harmful as not treating your Sleep Apnea. Of course, you should consult with your Physician to make that decision. For the latest updates and recommendations check out the Philips Recall Website. 

Recall Registration and Remediation Updates:

Philips states that it is working diligently to remediate the millions of devices that were affected by this recall. To date, there have been 4 million devices registered worldwide. Of those 10% have been completely remediated. This means that there is still lots of work still ahead. We have been advised that the recall is estimated to be completed by September of 2022.

Recall Prioritization Requests:

Philips Respironics has been involved in conversations with external parties regarding patient prioritization. As a manufacturer, they do not typically have the clinical background of the patient nor the direct interaction with them required to support the design of formal patient prioritization plans. However, upon request of the FDA, they will be collecting data on the patient registration web site to determine if a prioritization scale for the U.S. based on relevant patient health information from registrations would be a positive step. The scale is used in addition to several pre-requisites (e.g., the availability of a given device in stock). More details will be provided in due course.

What to expect in the first Quarter of 2022 for the Philips Recall:

Philips is still running around the clock in the recall and remediation efforts. They still expect to finalize the remediation of registered recall units by September of 2022. In addition to the massive number of units on the recall list, global supply chains are also disrupted. This means that while Philips does not expect any delays in their plan, things can change. They are ramping up continuously to accelerate the remediation efforts as much as possible.

Should I still be using my DreamStation 1 CPAP?

Continuing to use your DreamStation 1 CPAP is something that you will have to decide on in consultation with your Sleep doctor. This means that you will have to weigh out the risks of potential VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) and foam degradation against not treating your Sleep Apnea. Philips has been inspecting old DreamStation 1 units pretty closely. Here is what they are saying about that.

Philips updated DreamStation 1 Inspection Statement:

“We are encouraged by the VOC test results to date for the first-generation Dreamstation devices, which we published in December 2021. The results indicate that VOCs do not exceed safe exposure thresholds specified in the applicable safety standards (e.g. ISO 18562). Using conservative health-protective exposure thresholds, the additional testing suggests no increased risk for adverse health effects in the general patient population nor the higher risk patient population as a result of VOC exposure. As we announced in December, it is important to note that the tested DreamStation devices were not exposed to ozone cleaning, as per the device instructions for use.”