Everything You Have Ever Wanted To Know About PAP Therapy
All Of Your CPAP Questions Answered
In this comprehensive article, we delve into every aspect of CPAP therapy, providing you with a thorough understanding of this vital treatment for sleep apnea.
Whether you're curious about the costs involved, the various comfort settings on PAP machines (types of machines: CPAPS, APAPs, BPAP), or have common questions regarding usage and maintenance, this guide covers it all.
We aim to equip you with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about your therapy, ensuring you have a complete picture of what to expect and how to optimize your treatment for better sleep and overall health.
In this article, anytime the term “CPAP” is used, please know that the information applies to APAPs as well.
Do CPAP machines make noise? Are CPAP machines loud?
CPAP machines generate a barely audible hum, especially when compared to the highly audible ruckus generated by snoring. Modern models in particular are designed to be as quiet as possible.
Most contemporary CPAP devices operate at noise levels ranging from about 20 to 30 decibels (dB), which is comparable to the sound of a soft whisper or a quiet room. This is significantly quieter than snoring, which typically ranges from 40 to 70 dB, or more. Advances in CPAP technology have led to quieter motors and better sound-dampening features, and many machines include noise-reducing components like quieter exhalation ports and improved seals on the masks.
Most users find the noise from a CPAP machine minimal and non-disruptive, especially when compared to snoring; any noise a CPAP machine generates is unlikely to affect sleep quality for both the user and their bed partner.
Can you buy a CPAP machine over the counter?
No, you cannot buy a CPAP machine over the counter.
These devices require a prescription from a healthcare provider because they need to be properly fitted and adjusted to meet the specific needs of each patient.
A sleep study is conducted to diagnose sleep apnea and determine the appropriate pressure settings for the PAP machine. This ensures that the device is used safely and effectively.
The CPAP machine itself must be obtained through a licensed supplier. KOZIE is a licensed PAP machine supplier - check out our available PAP machines.
Can you get a CPAP without a sleep study?
Yes, if you already have a valid prescription for a CPAP machine from a previous sleep study, you can obtain a CPAP machine without undergoing a new sleep study. The prescription typically includes details about the required pressure settings and other specifications tailored to your needs. With this prescription, you can purchase or obtain a CPAP machine from our site.
However, if you are seeking a CPAP machine for the first time or need to adjust your therapy, a sleep study is required. KOZIE specializes in an expedited process - it is typically about 7-days from when you purchase your sleep test to when your CPAP ships out.
How many watts does a CPAP use?
Per the University of Denver, a CPAP uses 40 watts of power. If it runs eight hours each night, your CPAP is expected to use 320 watt hours each day.
Does CPAP count as carry on?
Taking CPAP machines aboard the plane is permitted. If your CPAP is in a carrying case, instead of inside of your luggage, your CPAP will be excluded from counting as one of your limited carry-on items.
Your experience at individual airports may vary slightly, but airport regulations are straightforward regarding CPAPs. TSA will most likely request that you open your suite case, and your CPAP carrying case, and allow a visual examination. Next, your CPAP machine will pass through the x-ray station.
Can a CPAP machine kill you?
Using a CPAP machine is not considered typically risky, let alone deadly. On the contrary, can you die from not using your CPAP machine? The answer to the latter, is yes.
Ensuring you purchase a machine that is not affected by the 2021 Respironics Recall is best. Learn more about the 2021 Respironics Recall in this article. View our available PAP machines.
ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet vs ResMed AirSense 11
Both the AirSense 10 and the AirSense 11 have common features. For instance, both models have AutoRamp, EPR, SmartStop / SmartStart, MyAir, and Humidification.
However, the AirSense 11’s advanced digital technologies was designed to ease the initiation of therapy and ensure long-term adherence. A major improvement is its seamless integration with myAir™, which offers enhanced guidance and personalized support. The goal is to provide a more comfortable and user-friendly experience, boosting your confidence in your therapy and helping you stay on track.
Here’s a look at some of the new features of the AirSense 11:
Test Drive: The AirSense 11 has a "test drive" feature through myAir, allowing users to explore various therapy settings over a short period and check the mask seal.
Personal Therapy Assistant: The AirSense 11 has a Personal Therapy Assistant on the myAir app, which offers voice-guided videos to assist with setup and troubleshooting. This feature aims to simplify the start of therapy and provide support whenever needed.
Care Check-In: The Care Check-In feature facilitates easier communication with your healthcare provider by offering regular check-ins and personalized coaching. With your consent, remote monitoring allows your provider to review your therapy progress and offer targeted support.
AutoSet for Her: The AirSense 11's AutoSet mode includes the AutoSet for Her therapy option, providing customized pressure adjustments to meet the specific needs of women.
ResMed 11 parts are not compatible with ResMed 10 machines.
ResMed AirSense 11 problems
No recalls have been reported for the ResMed AirSense 10 nor the ResMed AirSense 11.
ResMed’s Mini CPAP: The AirMini (CPAP travel machine)
The AirMini is a portable CPAP system that is an excellent choice for frequent travelers and those on the go due to its compact size and lightweight design.
At just 5.4 inches by 3.3 inches and weighing only 10.6 ounces, the AirMini CPAP fits easily into a purse or a backpack.
The AirMini travel CPAP’s waterless humidification system and versatile power options further enhance its convenience, making it easy to maintain effective CPAP therapy no matter where your travels take you.
The AirMini includes both CPAP and APAP modes.
CPAP machine costs?
You may be asking yourself, how much does a CPAP cost?
CPAPs range between $850 - $1,100. This cost includes everything you need to operate your CPAP, minus the mask itself (and maybe a chin strap).
The cost for a sleep apnea machine is often lower through self pay than through insurance.
KOZIE offers the accessibility of payment options for qualifying patients (0% for 6-mo).
You may be wondering, “Where to buy a CPAP machine near me?”
Going through insurance involves extensive hoops to jump through.
You have a straightforward alternative with us at KOZIE. Simply place your order, and we'll ship your CPAP machine to you today.
No need to navigate complex insurance processes — just efficient service and prompt delivery to get you the therapy you need without the hassle.
Cheapest way to get a CPAP prescription?
The most affordable, and fastest, method of getting a CPAP prescription is to order a home sleep test through KOZIE. You’ll have your CPAP prescription within a few days and you will receive your CPAP soon thereafter.
Start to finish? Bank on seven days total.
How long to get CPAP after sleep study?
With KOZIE’s online sleep apnea testing, you’ll have your test results within 3 days of your test. Your machine will typically ship out to you on the day that you receive your test results.
Do you need a prescription for a CPAP machine?
Yes, you have to have a prescription for a CPAP machine - the FDA classifies CPAP machines as “Class II”. CPAP machines have been prescription-only since their introduction in the early 1980s.
While at first glance it may seem tedious to acquire a prescription, give us a call, we’ll walk you through the process and have your CPAP on it’s way to you within 7-days.
No, you cannot buy a CPAP machine without a doctor.
Are CPAP masks universal? Are there different types of CPAP nasal masks for AirSense 11? What about ResMed AirSense 10 masks?
Most CPAP supplies, including masks, tubing, and filters, are designed to be compatible with a wide range of CPAP machines, ensuring versatility and ease of use.
Standard components such as 22mm or 15mm tubing and universal mask connections facilitate compatibility across various models and brands. This standardization allows users to interchange parts and accessories without concern, provided they are not using travel-specific machines.
Travel CPAP machines often have unique designs and connectors to optimize portability and compactness, which may not align with standard CPAP supplies.
However, for conventional CPAP machines, the widespread compatibility of supplies helps streamline maintenance and customization, making it easier for users to manage their therapy effectively.
CPAP mask types?
There are two main types of CPAP masks.
Nasal CPAP masks cover only the nose (colloquially known as a “nose mask”), providing a seal that delivers airflow directly through the nasal passages. This mask is typically designed to be less obtrusive than full-face masks, offering a more compact and lightweight option for those who breathe through their nose during sleep (or who can tolerate a chin strap). Nasal masks are often the most preferred type of CPAP mask.
The nasal mask usually features adjustable straps that secure it in place around the head, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit. The mask's cushion, often made from soft, flexible materials, creates a seal around the nose to prevent air leaks and maintain effective therapy. Nasal masks are ideal for individuals who don’t need a full-face mask and prefer a less invasive option that allows for more freedom of movement during sleep.
For users with nasal congestion or who breathe through their mouth, nasal masks may not always be suitable. In such cases, full-face masks may be a better option.
Full-face masks cover both the nose and mouth, allowing users to breathe through either or both pathways. This makes it an excellent choice for individuals who may breathe through their mouth during sleep or those with nasal congestion. However, the larger size and increased surface area of full-face masks can also mean a higher potential for leaks. Ensuring a proper fit is crucial to reduce the risk of air escaping and to maintain effective therapy.
CPAP masks for side sleepers?
We recommend the ResMed AirFit N20 or ResMed AirFit N30.
The ResMed N20 CPAP mask has a more prominent frame/headgear; the ResMed N30 has a less prominent frame/headgear.
The ResMed AirFit N30 is likely one of the smallest CPAP masks.
Both are great options for patients who sleep on their side.
Replacing the cushions, on all nasal masks, every two weeks is vital to ensure the prevention of air leaks.
Best mask for mouth breathers?
The best masks for patients who breath through their mouth AND cannot tolerate a chin strap will be full face CPAP masks. If you are able to tolerate a chin strap, you may still be able to use a nasal mask.
The ResMed F30i mask and the ResMed F30 mask are both low profile full face masks.
Neither the F30i nor the F30 mask obstructs the line of sight, making them a great choice for patients who must use a CPAP full face mask but prefer to wind down by watching TV or reading.
Best CPAP mask?
Research suggests nasal CPAP masks are the preferred choice for new patients, usually. It may take a few tries to find the right mask for you, personally, but trust us when we say this - it’s worth it. Finding the right mask for your sleeping style, your facial structure, your nightly bedtime habits, makes all the difference in an easy transition versus a more difficult one.
CPAP tubing
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) tubing is a crucial component in the CPAP therapy system, designed to deliver a steady stream of air from the machine to the mask worn by the user. Typically made from flexible, durable plastic, the tubing connects the CPAP machine to the mask, allowing for effective airflow that helps keep the airways open during sleep.
While there are various types of CPAP tubing, the tubing is usually lightweight and designed to be tangle-resistant, ensuring ease of movement and minimizing disruptions to the user's rest. Some tubing can be heated, to help with rainout.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning and inspecting the tubing for wear and tear, is essential to prevent issues such as blockages or leaks, which can affect the efficacy of the therapy.
What is EPR on CPAP?
EPR on CPAP stands for Expiratory Pressure Relief.
The EPR feature is available on the vast majority of CPAP/APAP machine models, and is intended to be used as a comfort setting. A comfort setting is available for a patient to adjust, by themselves at home, as per their personal preference.
Usually, the EPR settings can be adjusted from a level of one to three. The lower the level, the lower the degree of expiratory pressure relief. The higher the level, the higher the degree of expiratory pressure relief.
While adjusting your EPR usually will not impact the efficacy of your therapy, it is important to note that it is possible for your EPR settings to negatively affect your AHI.
Remember, as a general guideline, your AHI should be below 5 every day. If your AHI passes 5, consistently, reach out to your provider and make sure to advise them of your EPR settings.
Sometimes, simply decreasing the EPR by 1 is enough. Other times, the increased AHI is not related to the EPR settings at all.
What is ramp time on CPAP?
Ramp time on a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is a feature designed to make the initiation of therapy more comfortable by gradually increasing the air pressure.
If your Ramp feature is turned on, when you first start your CPAP machine, it will begin at a lower pressure, which then slowly ramps up to the prescribed therapeutic level over a set period of time. This gradual increase helps you adjust to the airflow; ramp is known as a comfort setting.
As it is a comfort setting, the ramp time can usually be adjusted by the patient at home. Ramp time often ranges from a few minutes to up to 60 minutes.
This feature is especially beneficial for new CPAP users or those who have difficulty adjusting to higher pressures, as it allows for a smoother transition to the full pressure needed for effective therapy; by the time the machine is at the prescribed pressure, the patient has fallen asleep and is none the wiser.
Is it illegal to change CPAP pressure?
No, it is not illegal to change your CPAP pressures.
However, it is strongly recommended that you don’t alter the settings on you PAP machine. The changes that you make, at home and without medical supervision, are unlikely to help you.
Instead, you can actually get yourself into a bit of a pickle, because odds are, your adjustments will be either too high or too low.
If you shoot too high, you can risk causing central sleep apnea events. If you shoot too low, you can risk increasing your obstructive sleep apnea events.
We strongly advise against adjusting your pressure settings without medical supervision.
How do I know when CPAP needs servicing?
Your CPAP machine will notify you if servicing is indicated. Preemptive servicing is not indicated.
KOZIE offers a streamlined approach to dispensing CPAP machines, ensuring a seamless experience from start to finish. Not only do we provide you with the latest CPAP technology, but we also include personalized training and device configuration to help you get the most out of your therapy. With KOZIE, you can rest easy knowing that you have expert support to set up and manage your CPAP machine effectively.
Contact us today with any questions via phone call or text message at (501) 456-9431.