The AirCurve VPAP Auto Bilevel from ResMed is the latest addition to the Bipap world. In this blog we will go over how to access and change the clinical settings in the provider menu. If you are not a clinician or under the supervision of a clinician, then you should probably stay away from these settings.
How to Access the Provider Menu in the AirCurve 11:
Make sure that your AirCurve 11 is plugged in and ready.
Press and hold the “My Options” and the “My Sleep View” tiles until the screen changes.
Once you see “Clinical Home” in the upper screen you can release the tiles.
Next press “settings” and you are in the Clinical/Provider Menu.
Adjusting settings in the AirCurve 11 Clinical Menu?
These settings are meant to be adjusted by a knowledgeable clinician and should only be done in that manner. Below we will take a look at the settings available and how to adjust them.
Mode– Here you can adjust between VAuto, S, and CPAP. Descriptions below:
Vauto– In the Vauto Setting the AirCurve 11 will adjust itself to the best pressure in a given pressure range. Range adjustment will be between Max IPAP and Min EPAP. with a given PS (Pressure Support).
S Mode– This function is a fixed IPAP and EPAP Pressure.
CPAP– In this mode you can put the AirCurve 11 in a fixed pressure CPAP mode which makes the unit no longer a Bilevel.
Pressure Settings:
Vauto Settings:
Max IPAP– This is the maximum Inhalation pressure that the AirCurve will go to in the auto adjusting algorithm.
Min EPAP– This is the lowest that the Exhalation pressure will start at in the auto adjusting algorithm.
PS- This is the Pressure Support setting. It is the difference between IPAP and EPAP. So as the IPAP and EPAP adjust the Pressure support is the difference between them. If the PS is set at a 4 then the IPAP will always be 4 cm higher than the EPAP as the EPAP adjusts up.
S Settings:
IPAP– This is the pressure setting that the AirCurve will go to on inhalation.
EPAP– This is the setting that the AirCurve will go to when the user is exhalation.
CPAP Settings: This is a fixed pressure CPAP setting and can be adjust from 4-20 cm. It is no longer operating as a bilevel in this mode.
TI Range– This is the Range of inspiratory time limits to accommodate individual respiratory conditions. Check out the description and chart below for more explanation.
TI Max– limits the inspiration time for patients who require a longer expiration time.
TI Min– prevents the premature cycling to EPAP for patients whose inspiratory pressure is extremely weak.
Ti Max and Min guidelines chart
Trigger– This is the sensitivity setting that tells the device to switch from EPAP to IPAP on inhalation. It is adjustable from Very Low to Very High and comes preset in Medium. Patient with unique conditions may benefit from adjustments here.
Cycle– This is the sensitivity setting that tells the device to switch back from IPAP to EPAP on exhalation. It is adjustable from Very Low to Very High and comes preset in Medium. Patient with unique conditions may benefit from adjustments here.
Comfort Settings in the AirCurve 11:
The remainder of the settings in the Provider menu are related to patient comfort and many of these are adjustable by the patient in their patient level menu. Below I will detail those settings.
Comfort Settings:
Ramp Time– This is the time it will take to go from the Minimum EPAP to therapy EPAP.
Start EPAP– This is the EPAP setting that the ramp will begin at
Humidity Level– Adjustable from off to 8. Off being the least humidity and 8 being the most. Increase if you are dry, decrease if you get condensation.
Mask Setting– Nasal, Pillow or full. It is a good idea to have this set correctly.
Tube– Slim (15mm), Standard (22mm) and 3m. Most everyone gets a Slim Tube to start with
B/V Filter– If you are using an in line bacteria filter, then you should turn this setting to on. Most people do not use this.
Patient View– By changing this to Advanced from Simple you will give the patient access to more data on their device. I like leaving it in advanced.
SmartStart– Turning this on allows the unit to turn itself on when it feels you breathing on the mask.
SmartStop– Turning this setting on allows the unit to turn itself off when you take the mask off. If your machine is turning itself off while you are using it then turn this setting off.
Care Check-in- Allows the system to send detailed helpful information to the user.
Language– Put this in the language of the user.
Time Zone– Set to the Appropriate time zone for the user.
Temps Units– C or F.
Restore Defaults– Takes the Bilevel back to the factory settings.
Erase Data– Removes all compliance and therapy data for use on a new user. Erase data between customers.
About– Details about this particular Aircurve 11 Bilevel.
If you are in the market for a new Bilevel or Bipap Machine, then you must check out the AirCurve 11 from ResMed. This brand new Bilevel gives you a ton of great new features as well as keeping the “good ‘ol” features that you loved from the previous model. It is always nice to have upgrades without sacrificing the things that have always worked well. In this blog we will discuss the details of the AirCurve 11 that set it apart from other options available.
What is new on the ResMed AirCurve 11 Bilevel?
ResMed is always leading the way in the sleep world, and the AirCurve 11 Bilevel is a great example of that ingenuity. This new machine keeps many of the excellent features from the AirCurve 10, but there are also some significant upgrades. Let’s look over a few of those improvements.
AirCurve 11 Upgrades:
Connectivity– You now not only have the ability to stay connected to your app for daily therapy details, but now the AirCurve 11 will allow for updates to internal software automatically. It also has the ability to Bluetooth when cell coverage is unavailable.
Touchscreen menu– No more turning and twisting knobs. The touchscreen on this new unit makes navigating your menus incredibly simple.
Oximetry integration– Connect a pulse oximeter to pair your detailed Blood Oxygen levels and heart rate with your CPAP usage and compliance data.
New modern look– The all-white look and low profile give the AirCurve 11 a great modern look on the nightstand.
Size– The dimensions of this new model make it much easier to travel with and to find space for on the nightstand.
AirCurve 11 Bilevel Cons:
As with anything that has been updated, you will find a few things that you don’t prefer. Those are pretty hard to find and maybe I am splitting hairs, but there are a few things that you will want to consider before the upgrade to the AirCurve 11 Bilevel.
AirCurve 11 Downsides:
New Heated tubing– If you are upgrading from an older ResMed Bilevel you unfortunately will not be able to use your old heated tubing on the new AirCurve 11.
New Filters– You also will not be able to use your old filters from the Air 10 or S9. Those two previous models had the exact same size filter, but that has changed now in the 11.
Auto off can be tricky– I am not a huge fan of the “Auto-off” feature in the 11 models. It seems a bit sensitive, and many customers have reported the unit turning off while in use due to large leaks. We have a great blog detailing that and how to fix it here.
My thoughts on the AirCurve 11 Overall:
Whenever ResMed releases a new product it deserves some attention. So, we have eagerly awaited the arrival of this new Bilevel. We have used the AirSense 11 CPAP for a couple years now, so the “look” of the new AirCurve 11 was no surprise. Visually, it is an awesome nightstand upgrade. It just looks way more modern. Operationally, the proven algorithm has stayed the same from the 10 to the eleven which is a great thing. Additionally, the ability to update and upgrade wirelessly is a huge plus. I would say that this new model is 100% worth the upgrade if you have enjoyed the AirCurve 10 from ResMed.
So many CPAP users have used the SoClean 2 CPAP sanitizing system for years. It was the most simple and automatic method for keeping germs, bacteria, mold and other harmful things out of your CPAP Equipment. Now the SoClean 3 has launched and promises to be the new best option. In this blog we will compare and review the differences and similarities between the two systems. Additionally, we have some very informative links about the safety of Ozone and what the FDA has said about the use of SoClean at the bottom of this article.
Similarities of SoClean 2 and SoClean 3:
SoClean boasts that they have a safe and effective method for sanitizing your CPAP Equipment if used properly. Both the 2 and the 3 have features that ensure you are connected correctly, and that the Ozone is ventilated properly. This is important because ozone (ionized oxygen) can be harmful. Both SoClean models also allow you to run the ozone throughout the internal portions of the mask and tubing. This ensures that none of the bad stuff can hide in the crevices. Both are designed for the nightstand, and both connect directly to your CPAP Equipment.
Similarities Breakdown:
Nightstand location– Both are designed to be connected beside your CPAP Equipment. They both also need to be connected to power.
Ozone– The SoClean 2 and 3 both use ionized oxygen to kill the bad stuff.
Safety Features– The safety features of both are designed to keep the ozone where it is supposed to be.
Works internally– They both push the ozone through the internal components of the mask and tubing.
Differences of SoClean 2 and SoClean 3:
Obviously, since both models are in circulation there are reasons why CPAP users might choose one or the other. The differences between these two models will likely be the reason why you choose one or the other. For instance, SoClean 2 is the only one that moves ozone through the water chamber internally. While the SoClean 3 only does the mask and tubing. On another note, SoClean 3 has a different footprint. So, some may find it easier or more difficult to fit on the nightstand. We all know how tight the nightstand can get.
Differences Breakdown:
Full ozone intrusion– The SoClean 2 connects to the CPAP humidifier. This allows the ozone to circulate from the water chamber all the way through the mask and tubing. The SoClean 3 only moves the ozone through the mask and tubing.
Dimensions– The SoClean 3 checks in at 7.5″ tall x 9.5″ wide x 7″ deep footprint. The SoClean 2 is 8.75″ tall x 7.25″ wide x 7.75″ deep.
Progress bar– You can see how far along the SoClean 3 is in its cleaning cycle visually on the top with the progress bar.
Safety lock– The SoClean 3 will not allow you to open the lid until the ozone has been reverted. Even if you stop the cleaning cycle.
Can Ozone be bad?
You do not want to breath in ozone. It can be harmful to you physically as well as to CPAP parts over time. However, SoClean stands behind the safety of their devices as long as you use them correctly. This means that you should only use their SoClean parts and follow proper setup and use instructions. However, with the SoClean 2 you will likely have ozone intrusion into the internal components of your CPAP machine. This may cause corrosion or early breakdown of plastic and metal parts. Likely causing a shorter lifespan for your CPAP device. In fact, most manufacturers do not recommend using ozone on their CPAP equipment. They typically recommend mild soap and water. The SoClean 3 does not allow ozone into the CPAP and does not cause this issue.
The Luna 2 CPAP Machine from react health is a great option for treating Sleep Apnea. It is quiet, reliable and effective. In this blog we will show you how to get the very most out of your Luna 2 CPAP machine. From setup and operation to adjustments and maintenance. We cover it all here for you. Below we will break down everything you need to be successful.
Luna 2 CPAP Quick Setup Instructions:
Setting up your Luna 2 CPAP Machine is super easy but must be done properly if you want it to work properly. The video above does a great job of helping you navigate that process. Below we have a step-by-step layout to show you how to get started on the right foot with your Luna 2 CPAP.
Luna 2 Setup Instructions:
Remove your Luna 2 CPAP from the travel case.
Connect your AC power supply to the power brick converter and to the wall outlet.
Connect your power supply to the Luna 2. Power port is located at the top and back of the CPAP. Be careful to match the plug up correctly to avoid damage to the plug and power port.
Connect your tube to the air outlet on the back and the mask to the other end of the tube.
Pull out your Humidifier chamber and fill to the max line with distilled water. Reinstall the water chamber.
You are now ready to turn on your Luna 2 with the knob on top and enjoy a restful night’s sleep.
Proper Adjustment for your Luna 2 CPAP:
The Luna 2 Setup menu has most of the same adjustments as most other CPAPs. The video above will detail how to access that menu and when to make adjustments. We also detail them below for a quick reference.
Luna 2 CPAP User Settings Adjustments:
Humidifier– This adjustment will allow you to add more or less humidity to the air that you are breathing. If you wake up dried out then you should increase this setting. If you wake up and have condensation or water in your tube or mask, then this setting should be decreased.
Ramp Time– This is the amount of time the Luna 2 will take to go from your Starting Pressure to your Therapy Pressure.
Date– You can set your current date and time here.
Time– Set your local time here. This can be a big deal for compliance reports.
Brightness– High brightens the screen and low will dim the screen.
Mask Type– Set the type of mask that you use. Nasal, Full, or Pillow. The mask setting can affect the operation.
Luna 2 CPAP Maintenance and Cleaning:
If you take care of your Luna 2 CPAP machine, you will likely have years of quiet and effective therapy. The important part is that you maintain it properly. Above you will find a great video demonstrating exactly how to do that. In addition we have a quick list and instructions below.
Luna 2 Maintenance needs:
Filter– There is a black foam filter located on the back bottom corner of your CPAP. To access the filter you will remove the housing and pull out the filter. Rinse it well, dry it off and put it back in the housing. Reattach the housing to the back of the CPAP. Failure to clean the filter is the number one reason your Luna 2 CPAP machine will fail.
Water Chamber– Wash your water chamber with soap and water weekly. Rinse very well and allow it to air dry. It helps to empty the water chamber every morning after use and refill at night with clean distilled water.
Mask and Tubing– Wash your mask and tubing with light dish soap and water. Rinse it very well and allow to fully air dry before use.
If you have received the AirSense 10 CPAP by ResMed, then you are already on the right track. Your next step is to make sure that you take advantage of all the benefits that this great CPAP provides. In this blog we will give you all that information in bite-sized chunks to make it easy to understand. From setup and settings to maintenance and troubleshooting. We cover it all here.
Setting up your AirSense 10 CPAP:
Setting up your AirSense 10 is very simple but needs to be done correctly. Above, we have a great setup video that will give you awesome step-by-step instructions with visual aid to make the setup very easy. You can also follow the simple steps below to ensure that you are off to a proper start.
Set it on a level surface close to where you will be sleeping. Usually, a nightstand is best. It is also a good idea for the surface to be close to the same height as your bed.
Attach the AC plug to the converter brick and then connect the other end of the cord to the back of the AirSense 10. It is a yellow receptacle on the lower backside of the CPAP machine.
Now you will attache your tube to the back of the CPAP. If it is a standard tube either end will connect to the CPAP. If it is a heated tube, make sure to insert the hose properly so that the power plug connects into the CPAP machine.
Connect your mask to the other end of the tube.
Next you will open the Humidifier Chamber, fill to the max line with distilled water, close the lid, and slide the water chamber into place on the right side of the CPAP machine.
You are now ready to fit your mask to your face and press the start button on top of the AirSense 10 CPAP for a great night sleep.
Adjusting your AirSense 10 for the Most Comfort:
Now that you have your ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP setup and you have started therapy, you will want to be sure that you understand how to make it work best for your specific needs. Everybody is different and will have different preferences and needs. In the video above and in the details below we will describe those settings and how to adjust them for your success. You will find these settings in the “My Options” selection from your main menu. If you are not seeing some of these settings your allowance may be limited. You can change that with this tutorial here.
AirSense 10 Patient Settings Explanation:
Ramp Time– This setting allows you to control the time the AirSense 10 will take to get from your Minimal Starting Pressure to your Therapy Pressure. It is a great way to help you adjust to CPAP Therapy. The higher you set this time the longer you will have at the lower pressure. This can help you fall asleep. It can be adjusted from 0-45 minutes. You also have the “Auto” setting which allows the CPAP to do this on its own, based on your breath rate.
Humidity Level– This setting can be adjusted from 0-8. The higher you go the more humidity will be added. Increase this setting if you are dried out. Decrease this setting if you have excess condensation in your mask or tubing. You may be seeing Climate Control and Tube temp settings. We detail those below.
Pressure Relief– This setting will help you exhale. If it is on, then the AirSense 10 will reduce the pressure as you exhale. If it is turned off, then there will be no pressure reduction on exhalation.
SmartStart– This setting allows the AirSense 10 to turn itself on as soon as you put on your mask and start breathing.
Mask– This is where you set the type of mask that you are using. It is an important thing to have set correctly for the sake of the algorithm.
Tube– Most AirSense 10 users are equipped with a Slimline 15mm tube. You can change that to a Standard tube if you have changed to the thicker 22mm tube. If you are using a ClimateLine Heated Tube, then the setting will adjust itself for you.
Run Mask Fit– This allows you to try on your mask and make adjustments for a proper seal. Start and Stop it from here.
Run Warm up– This will pre-heat your water in the humidifier so that it is giving you good humidification right off the bat.
Airplane mode– This turns the cell modem on and off.
Climate Control– If you have a heated Climateline Tube you will see this setting. You can leave it in Auto mode, and it will adjust the Humidity and Tube Temp on its own for you. You can put it in Manual Mode as well. In that mode you can adjust Humidity as described above. You will also see tube temp which you will adjust up or down to account for condensation. Increase the tube temp to reduce condensation.
AirSense 10 Maintenance and Cleaning:
Hopefully you are now off to a great start to CPAP Therapy on your AirSense 10. Over time you will have to make sure that you keep it running properly. This involves keeping up with a few disposable parts as well as a few parts that will need periodic cleaning. Check out the video above or the parts detail below for a quick overview.
AirSense 10 parts to maintain:
Humidifier Chamber– The water tank on the AirSense 10 will last 6-12 months if maintained. Clean with mild dish soap and water weekly. Empty every morning and let it air-dry. Only use distilled water in the tank. View replacement water chambers here.
Intake Filter– On the left side of this CPAP there is a little vented door. You can flap that door down to expose a small white filter. This is a disposable filter that should be checked weekly and changed at the first sign of discoloration or dust. You can buy more filters here.
Tube and Mask– The tubing and mask need to be washed at least once per week with mild dish soap and warm water. Rinse very well and allow to air dry completely before reconnecting.
A proposed Settlement has been reached in a U.S. class action lawsuit alleging Economic Loss Claims related to the purchase, lease, or rental of certain CPAPs, BiPAPs, and ventilators that Philips Respironics recalled beginning in June 2021. These devices were sold in the U.S. between 2008 and 2021.
There has been a lot of talk lately about the DreamSation 2 CPAP from Philips Respironics, and potential issues. Some have even said that there will be another recall. Much of this is due to reported “thermal events” from DreamStation 2 CPAP users. In this blog we are going to expand on what “thermal events” mean, as well as the details of reported DreamStation 2 issues.
DreamStation 2 CPAP Thermal Events:
A thermal event is defined as anything related to the heated humidifier portion of the DreamStation 2 CPAP. Some reports have indicated that the user experienced the heater getting really hot. Others have reported that they smelled burning plastic or something getting hot. These cases are filed with the FDA by Philips Respironics as they are required to do.
How Many Thermal Events have been filed with the FDA?
Since the DreamStation 2 was launched there have been Millions distributed worldwide. Out of that total number there have been about 270 thermal events documented and reported to the FDA by Philips Respironics. That number is accurate as of the date this blog is published. These were reported in batches that may have created a bit of a concern, because it looked like a quick uptick in these vents.
Have DreamStation 2 CPAPs caught on fire?
The words “thermal event” definitely causes significant concern. For some reason it causes me to think of a nuclear bomb. Not exactly what you want people to think about their CPAP machine. However, according to Respironics, not a single DreamStation 2 CPAP has caught on fire. Of course, my reference on this is Philips Respironics, but with the level of scrutiny that they are under from the FDA, it seems unlikely that they would not be misleading anyone right now.
What is Philips Respironics saying about these concerns?
On November 28, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released a safety communication regarding possible thermal issues with the DreamStation 2 sleep therapy device while in use. There was not a sharp increase of reportable complaints. As part of our ongoing commitment to patient safety and quality, we conducted a retrospective review of possible DreamStation 2 thermal complaints initiated over the course of an almost three-year period since its launch in 2021. We filed approximately 270 reports with the FDA over the last three months as part of this post market surveillance. These reports were submitted in batches starting in August 2023, which we believe may have been interpreted incorrectly as a sharp increase in customer complaints.
DreamStation 2 can continue to be used. As with any medical device, the instructions for use should be
followed.
Our number one priority continues to be patient safety and quality and we treat all feedback from our
patients and our regulators with the highest levels of urgency. It is important to note:
Outside of continued adherence to the instructions for use, no additional action is needed by
patients or DME/homecare providers as a result of the FDA’s publication.
If you are looking for some great Christmas gift ideas for the CPAP user in your life, we have you here. No matter what your budget is you can get a useful and meaningful gift. In this blog we have some awesome options starting at just $10. Let’s take a look.
Stocking Stuffer Bunde– This incorporates everything listed below at one low price. This bundle includes Mask liners, mask wipes, Tube Cleaner, and cpaptab cleaning tablets. It is a great option that provides real comfort and simplicity for CPAP users.
CPAP Tube Brush– There is really no good way to clean those hard-to-reach places in the CPAP tube or CPAP mask. This brush set makes it super easy and is just $14.99.
Mask Wipes– This is the greatest and simplest gift for a CPAP user. It allows them to keep their mask clean and fresh in seconds each night before bed. Just $9.95.
cpaptabs Cleaning Tablets– These are so much better than just the old soap and water routine. These tablets are designed specifically for silicone masks and make things much easier. 96 tablets just $19.95.
Cloth CPAP Mask Covers– These washable 4 packs of cloth covers gives an effective and more comfortable seal for CPAP users. Available in Nasal or Full Face and just $24.99.
There are a couple of really great gift options that can be a huge help and have real-world applications. It is really nice to get something that someone may actaully need instead of something that is just opened and put away never to be seen again.
Best CPAP Cleaner- The unit that we are really liking these days is the Liviliti CPAP Cleaner. Click here to check it out in detail. It uses UV light and kills all the bacteria, viruses, mold and mildew that can make a CPAP user sick. Keeps the CPAP equipment clean and fresh without any odd ozone smell.
Best CPAP Battery- The NiteOwl CPAP battery fits almost every CPAP right out of the box. It provides backup power in the event of power outages. It will take over without missing a beat if the power goes out at night. This gift will be great for the CPAP user as well as the bed partner when the power goes out. Click here to check out the NiteOwl.
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 below completely. 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 complete all fields below in the 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
Time Frame of Compliance report (IE: 30, 90, 120, or 365 day reports)
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.
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:
Remove your headgear from your mask.
Slip the Nasal Pillow cushion through the holes of the NozeSeal and make sure that the slots are facing the right direction.
Hold the Pillows snuggly against your nostrils.
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.
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.