• » print
• » report
• » email

There are many CPAP users out there who do not use their machines.  Much of this is due to the fact that this type of therapy is requires a strong desire by the user to stick with the therapy.  The good news is new masks, machines and humidifiers are making this type of care more comfortable.  Several new pieces of equipment are being introduced in the next couple of months.

A new machine is being introduced by Phillips Respironics.  This new CPAP, according to the literature, takes care of many of the issues that users tend to have.  It has CFLEX, a therapy mode that allows the breath to be delivered similar to a natural breath rather then a machine.  This setting also has an adjustment so that the user can find the flow that is comfortable for their personal breathing pattern. 

The equipment is also able to communicate with your doctor and medical equipment company.  It has a program that will allow them to monitor the progress of the person using the machine and if they are having any issues they can be corrected in a timely manner instead having to wait for a doctor’s appointment and discussing it with them.  All the patient needs to do is make a phone call.  The doctor of the equipment company can then access the machine and know if it is being used, if the user is still have issues with snoring, apneas, or with the mask and they can then change the setting to help the person be more comfortable. 

The final issue they have looked at is proper humidification without the water collecting in the tube.  In the old humidifier the temperature was not controlled at the mask.  This new machine looks at humidification at the mask so that excess   water does not accumulate in the tubing causing a sloshing sound and accidentally drenching the patient as they move during the night. 

New masks come out constantly.  Phillips Respironics and Resmed have both come out with changes to the masks they offer.  Respironics has two new full face masks.  The FullLife mask is a restructuring of typical full face mask to make it more comfortable as well as making it lighter.  The most unique thing is that it no longer has a forehead pad but has a headgear with a chin strap to adjust the pressure across the bridge of the nose.  The Total Face Mask is a mask that seals around the whole face.  This allows patients with unusual shaped faces or patients who can not tolerate nasal or full face masks a new option. 

Resmed announced they have added a Softgel interface to their line of masks.  This will allow for a comfortable fit for patients who need a little more support to their masks. 

For people who have had their machines for 5 years or longer many insurance companies will replace older machines, however they may require you to re-qualify by having another sleep study to prove you still have sleep apnea.  Mask, hoses, filters and other equipment are replaced every 3 to 6 months but most people have to call their equipment provider to ask for these to be replaced.  If a CPAP user wants a new mask most likely they will have to ask their doctor for a new prescription.  Masks generally are not interchangeable.  Once you choose a mask you must get a new prescription to change it.  The same is true for a humidifier.  If a person does not get a heated humidifier when they initially get their machine they must get a prescription and may even need another sleep study in order to get one. 

Once you have started on CPAP therapy staying current with the changes in equipment may help in keeping a user compliant with care.

Amy Korn-Reavis, BA, RRT, RPSGT manages an accredited sleep lab in Apopka, Florida.  She also runs A.W.A.K.E. Orlando a support group for people with sleep disorders, their family members and people who want to learn more about how to get a good night sleep.  Her goal is to help everyone get a good night sleep.  If you have any questions you would like answered you can write her at amy8028472@yahoo.com