I'd like to know if anybody out there has this new nasal mask, and has an opinion on it.
Rusty
Resmed Mirage Micro ... Anyone have an opinion?
Hi Rusty,
I have a Resmed Mirage Micro in the Small size. I like it very much. It is my second favorite mask.
I used a Breeze nasal pillows during my titration study but couldn't quite get it adjusted so that it didn't rub the interior of one nostril. So we switched to the Fisher & Paykel HC 407 nasal cushion. The 407 was a little too big & I didn't know that the F&F HC 406 was the same mask in a smaller size.
When I went to pick up my equipment I saw the original Swift on a headform and like that there was so little of it so chose that to take home. It didn't last tho as I disliked the hose off to one side or the other. I understand the new Swift LT allows for 3 hose positions, either side AND the center.
Next I tried the ComfortLite 2 nasal pillows and used that for quite some time. I liked that there were so many areas of adjustment for fit. And its like getting 2 masks in one as it comes w/2 sizes of nasal pillows and 2 sizes of simple nasal cushion. I used the nasal pillows for some time but eventually switched to the Small simple nasal cushion. I knew immediately that I preferred the nasal cushion to the nasal pillows. I liked having the less direct air pressure into my nostrils and sinuses w/the nasal cushion. But eventually the cap sliding on the top of my head began to cause a tenderness of the scalp. I think I've read they've changed the headgear somewhat.
The next mask I tried was one of Respironics oldest masks, the Simplicity simple nasal cushion. I immediately fell in love w/it and it has been my favorite mask ever since. There is almost nothing to it. It is so lightweight. The hose swivel swings freely and the hose can be routed over my head or left loose in any direction. The headgear was way too large and I did have to make some easy, simple "fixes" to it.
I did try the Resmed Quattro full face mask for "those" nights of nasal congestion. And I think I would have really liked it - IF it came small enough. Unfortunately, the Small is still too big for me.
When I was switched from the Resmed S8 Elite w/EPR to the Resmed VPAP Auto my sleep pulmo suprised me by ordering the Micro for me. I like it. Since I was used to the Simplicity simple nasal cushion it took me some time to adjust to the thin cushion cover of the Micro at the bridge of the nose area. That thin cushion cover creates a bit of a difficulty for me to keep it from cutting into the skin at the bridge of the nose. Its a little more tricky to get positioned comfortably than the Simplicity but I've managed to do so and really like this mask and I tend to alternate between it and the Simplicity. It just takes a little more time at night to get it positioned right on the bridge of the nose whereas the Simplicity I can often just put on and go to sleep. It is important not to fit the Mirage too tight and that thin cushion cover does need to be fit loose enough to allow it to fill w/air. I like the ability to adjust the angle between forehad and bridge of nose especially. I've found I need to keep the forehead straps more loose than the lower straps for a good fit to avoid leaks at the eyes and the thin outer cushion from cutting into the bridge of the nose.
I hope this is of some help, but our faces are all so different what works best for me may be a disaster for you.
I have a Resmed Mirage Micro in the Small size. I like it very much. It is my second favorite mask.
I used a Breeze nasal pillows during my titration study but couldn't quite get it adjusted so that it didn't rub the interior of one nostril. So we switched to the Fisher & Paykel HC 407 nasal cushion. The 407 was a little too big & I didn't know that the F&F HC 406 was the same mask in a smaller size.
When I went to pick up my equipment I saw the original Swift on a headform and like that there was so little of it so chose that to take home. It didn't last tho as I disliked the hose off to one side or the other. I understand the new Swift LT allows for 3 hose positions, either side AND the center.
Next I tried the ComfortLite 2 nasal pillows and used that for quite some time. I liked that there were so many areas of adjustment for fit. And its like getting 2 masks in one as it comes w/2 sizes of nasal pillows and 2 sizes of simple nasal cushion. I used the nasal pillows for some time but eventually switched to the Small simple nasal cushion. I knew immediately that I preferred the nasal cushion to the nasal pillows. I liked having the less direct air pressure into my nostrils and sinuses w/the nasal cushion. But eventually the cap sliding on the top of my head began to cause a tenderness of the scalp. I think I've read they've changed the headgear somewhat.
The next mask I tried was one of Respironics oldest masks, the Simplicity simple nasal cushion. I immediately fell in love w/it and it has been my favorite mask ever since. There is almost nothing to it. It is so lightweight. The hose swivel swings freely and the hose can be routed over my head or left loose in any direction. The headgear was way too large and I did have to make some easy, simple "fixes" to it.
I did try the Resmed Quattro full face mask for "those" nights of nasal congestion. And I think I would have really liked it - IF it came small enough. Unfortunately, the Small is still too big for me.
When I was switched from the Resmed S8 Elite w/EPR to the Resmed VPAP Auto my sleep pulmo suprised me by ordering the Micro for me. I like it. Since I was used to the Simplicity simple nasal cushion it took me some time to adjust to the thin cushion cover of the Micro at the bridge of the nose area. That thin cushion cover creates a bit of a difficulty for me to keep it from cutting into the skin at the bridge of the nose. Its a little more tricky to get positioned comfortably than the Simplicity but I've managed to do so and really like this mask and I tend to alternate between it and the Simplicity. It just takes a little more time at night to get it positioned right on the bridge of the nose whereas the Simplicity I can often just put on and go to sleep. It is important not to fit the Mirage too tight and that thin cushion cover does need to be fit loose enough to allow it to fill w/air. I like the ability to adjust the angle between forehad and bridge of nose especially. I've found I need to keep the forehead straps more loose than the lower straps for a good fit to avoid leaks at the eyes and the thin outer cushion from cutting into the bridge of the nose.
I hope this is of some help, but our faces are all so different what works best for me may be a disaster for you.
_________________
| Mask: Quattro™ FX Full Face CPAP Mask with Headgear |
| Additional Comments: PR SystemOne BPAP Auto w/Bi-Flex & Humidifier - EncorePro 2.2 Software - Contec CMS-50D+ Oximeter - Respironics EverFlo Q Concentrator |
Women are Angels. And when someone breaks our wings, we simply continue to fly.....on a broomstick. We are flexible like that.
My computer says I need to upgrade my brain to be compatible with its new software.
My computer says I need to upgrade my brain to be compatible with its new software.
After using the Activa for several months, I switched to the Micro. It is more comfortable in that it doesn't cover as much of the face and does not block my vision. It's also been an improvement in that the bridge to the headpiece does not break like my Activa did. ( I sleep on my side with my face nearly buried in the pillow, causing pressure on the bridge.)
I have to loosen and tighten the straps every night to get it settled when it leaves no red ridge on my nose and does not leak. It may be that a different size will do better for me.
All in all, I have liked this mask.
I have to loosen and tighten the straps every night to get it settled when it leaves no red ridge on my nose and does not leak. It may be that a different size will do better for me.
All in all, I have liked this mask.
Resmed Mirage Micro
I, like Slinky, have this mask and the Simplicity (among others). The Micro is light, easy to put on and adjust and gives me a fairly good seal. I don't wear it or the Simplicity often since there are many times when a forehead piece really bothers me. I got a padacheek from Karen and it really helps with that forehead piece on the Micro. The adjustment knob on the Micro is great. I have several masks- many types and like to change them around depending upon the heat in the room (then I prefer something without any forehead piece) and how big a mask I feel like putting on. I like a variety of masks and ones that are as minimal as possible and still work for me. The Micro is like that for me.
But--everyones facial structure and size is different,as Slinky pointed out, and what works for one may not work at all for someone else.
But--everyones facial structure and size is different,as Slinky pointed out, and what works for one may not work at all for someone else.
_________________
| Machine: DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine |
| Mask: AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear |
| Humidifier: DreamStation Heated Humidifier |
| Additional Comments: Backups- FX Nano masks. Backup machine- Airmini auto travel cpap |
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Insomniyak
- Posts: 150
- Joined: Sat Jun 07, 2008 5:33 am
Glad you asked,
This is of course my first mask ever, and I have been on CPAP for a month as of today, but I love this mask. I was titrated on it and had such good results at the sleep lab that I decided to buy it rather than go through mask fittings again. It is light, easy to put on (with the clips on the bottom), and it seals nicely. As mentioned, I too have to adjust slightly every evening. I have the large gel on it. It does leak slightly when I turn on my left. It has left a mark on each side of my nose, but I think that is more to do with tweaking it now that I have the leaks ironed out, and also the need for my face to get used to have something on it.
This mask is so light for me with a small profile that this morning when I woke up, I had to feel to make sure I still had it on.
I probably will try the Activa next but I think I am pretty much set on keeping the Mirage Micro.
Go for it, you won't be disappointed if you like the Activa and want something smaller.
This is of course my first mask ever, and I have been on CPAP for a month as of today, but I love this mask. I was titrated on it and had such good results at the sleep lab that I decided to buy it rather than go through mask fittings again. It is light, easy to put on (with the clips on the bottom), and it seals nicely. As mentioned, I too have to adjust slightly every evening. I have the large gel on it. It does leak slightly when I turn on my left. It has left a mark on each side of my nose, but I think that is more to do with tweaking it now that I have the leaks ironed out, and also the need for my face to get used to have something on it.
This mask is so light for me with a small profile that this morning when I woke up, I had to feel to make sure I still had it on.
I probably will try the Activa next but I think I am pretty much set on keeping the Mirage Micro.
Go for it, you won't be disappointed if you like the Activa and want something smaller.
_________________
| Mask | |
 |
Simplicity mask
Do you find that with higher settings, that the nasalmasks blow off your face? Mine are 14/10.
I've had the lowest AHI & leak rates with the Comfort Gel, but lately it's cutting into the bridge of my nose and leaking. (The mask is new.) I think I'm stressing out - even though I start getting ready for bed around 8:30 or 9, I still toss & turn and usually give up & take Ambien or Benadryl around 11 to finally be able to go to sleep.
I have the Activa, but don't get as good therapy with it.
What do you recommend? I'd appreciate your guidance.
I've had the lowest AHI & leak rates with the Comfort Gel, but lately it's cutting into the bridge of my nose and leaking. (The mask is new.) I think I'm stressing out - even though I start getting ready for bed around 8:30 or 9, I still toss & turn and usually give up & take Ambien or Benadryl around 11 to finally be able to go to sleep.
I have the Activa, but don't get as good therapy with it.
What do you recommend? I'd appreciate your guidance.
Micro Mirage
lktnky - Is your machine a bipap or are those settings a pressure range on an auto?
I have an auto and have my range set at 10.5cm - 13cm and do not have any trouble with any type of mask blowing away from my nose or face. I can use nasal masks, nasal pillows, cradle cushions and nasal prong types. I rarely get to the 13cm setting but am almost always mostly in 11cm-12cm range. I have a very low leak rates and very low AHI (under 1) most of the time.
If your machine is a bipap (I can't tell by the way you listed the pressure) someone else will know better than I. I don't know much about bipaps.
I have an auto and have my range set at 10.5cm - 13cm and do not have any trouble with any type of mask blowing away from my nose or face. I can use nasal masks, nasal pillows, cradle cushions and nasal prong types. I rarely get to the 13cm setting but am almost always mostly in 11cm-12cm range. I have a very low leak rates and very low AHI (under 1) most of the time.
If your machine is a bipap (I can't tell by the way you listed the pressure) someone else will know better than I. I don't know much about bipaps.
_________________
| Machine: DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine |
| Mask: AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear |
| Humidifier: DreamStation Heated Humidifier |
| Additional Comments: Backups- FX Nano masks. Backup machine- Airmini auto travel cpap |
Hawthorne,
Yes, it is a bipap-Respironics BiPAP Auto M (until tomorrow). Isn't a pressure setting a pressure setting, though?
I'm still learning and it's an upward curve for me!
I've been at this for 9 months now and I'm still tired. Add to that 'discouraged'. Ok, and a little weepy, too. Last night was the first time in months that I slept w/o my machine. I just couldn't cope with all the leaks and scratchiness and headache.......WAH
_________________
CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): bipap
Yes, it is a bipap-Respironics BiPAP Auto M (until tomorrow). Isn't a pressure setting a pressure setting, though?
I'm still learning and it's an upward curve for me!
I've been at this for 9 months now and I'm still tired. Add to that 'discouraged'. Ok, and a little weepy, too. Last night was the first time in months that I slept w/o my machine. I just couldn't cope with all the leaks and scratchiness and headache.......WAH
_________________
CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): bipap
-
Insomniyak
- Posts: 150
- Joined: Sat Jun 07, 2008 5:33 am
I'm at 12 and I never have the problem of the mask blowing away, I do have to pull it sometimes to redo the seal.
I think the marks are just my face getting used to the pressure and will go away. Kinda like when you do alot of raking or yard work and you get those blisters on your hands, but they go away as they get used to doing that type of work on a regular basis. Not sure if it makes sense.
I think the marks are just my face getting used to the pressure and will go away. Kinda like when you do alot of raking or yard work and you get those blisters on your hands, but they go away as they get used to doing that type of work on a regular basis. Not sure if it makes sense.
_________________
| Mask | |
|
Micro Mirage
lktnky - You are probably right about a pressure being a pressure! I'm still learning too! I've been on the forum for a number of years but it was just this past February (2008) that I really got into this and had something in a machine besides just an old Remstar that only showed compliance!
Do you have software and a reader?
If you don't have the software and reader, it is not worth getting unless you have a "data capable" machine. The one you currently have is data capable. You say you have it until tomorrow. What is happening tomorrow?
Are you getting a different machine? If so, I hope it is data capable.
If you end up with a data capable (really try hard to get that - if you will be getting a different Respironics machine a "Pro" or an "Auto" are the data capable ones) and you can afford to buy the software and reader (online at cpap.com is the best place) then people here can tell you about what is happening in your sleep as far as leaks, apneas, pressures, etc.
I have the software and reader and have posted some charts here and had email help from a couple of people. These folks here can give pressure suggestions and info about leaks, etc that are really a great help. Your pressure setting may not be right. Sleep studies are just one night and certainly not idea circumstances! Getting the right pressure during that night is not often possible. I KNOW what you mean about getting adjusted to all this! Masks are a real issue too. Getting one that is really good for you is trial and error. I know they cost a bit but cpap.com has good prices and reviews are there from people who have tried particluar masks. Cpapauction.com is a good place to get new (unopened) or almost new masks quite cheaply so you can try a number without spending a fortune.
Some DMEs will let you try a mask for a while (a week or more in some cases) before buying. I'm in Canada and I can do that. If I pay $20 they will fit me with any mask they have and let me use it for a week or sometimes 2 weeks.
I have done so much better since I started with monitoring my own therapy and getting help here! Hang in there! It's worth it!
Do you have software and a reader?
If you don't have the software and reader, it is not worth getting unless you have a "data capable" machine. The one you currently have is data capable. You say you have it until tomorrow. What is happening tomorrow?
Are you getting a different machine? If so, I hope it is data capable.
If you end up with a data capable (really try hard to get that - if you will be getting a different Respironics machine a "Pro" or an "Auto" are the data capable ones) and you can afford to buy the software and reader (online at cpap.com is the best place) then people here can tell you about what is happening in your sleep as far as leaks, apneas, pressures, etc.
I have the software and reader and have posted some charts here and had email help from a couple of people. These folks here can give pressure suggestions and info about leaks, etc that are really a great help. Your pressure setting may not be right. Sleep studies are just one night and certainly not idea circumstances! Getting the right pressure during that night is not often possible. I KNOW what you mean about getting adjusted to all this! Masks are a real issue too. Getting one that is really good for you is trial and error. I know they cost a bit but cpap.com has good prices and reviews are there from people who have tried particluar masks. Cpapauction.com is a good place to get new (unopened) or almost new masks quite cheaply so you can try a number without spending a fortune.
Some DMEs will let you try a mask for a while (a week or more in some cases) before buying. I'm in Canada and I can do that. If I pay $20 they will fit me with any mask they have and let me use it for a week or sometimes 2 weeks.
I have done so much better since I started with monitoring my own therapy and getting help here! Hang in there! It's worth it!
_________________
| Machine: DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine |
| Mask: AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear |
| Humidifier: DreamStation Heated Humidifier |
| Additional Comments: Backups- FX Nano masks. Backup machine- Airmini auto travel cpap |
Thanks so much, Hawthorne. It's good to hear encouragement from those who've made it. I think, though, that 'making it' is a day to day thing, yes?
I've had a bunch of trouble with my Respironics machines. I've had 3 since January. None of them would consistantly record the data and I've been religious about wearing the mask 99% of the time. I'm still tired and the machines aren't very quiet. The current one wheezes like it has asthma. We're going to the DME tomorrow to exchange the Respironics for a Resmed S8 Auto. My sleep doc balked at first when I asked to exchange the machine but once he understood the amount of trouble I've had and that this exchange is an even exchange (as far as data capable options), then he was back on my side & wrote the scrip.
We have pretty good insurance and the DME has agreed to let me try some masks for 30 days. I tried the Activa but the numbers weren't as good as with the ComfortGel which is anything but comfortable for me - it sits on all the wrong places! And I breathe through my mouth. I look at the data in the morning and have created a simple spreadsheet just to track my AHI & hours slept. I can't trust the smartcard to record the data. Once I get the Resmed, I plan to purchase the card reader & software but I'll have to get it in Australia since I have Vista.
So that's the long version of why I've asked about whether or not you found the other mask(s) comfortable. When I had the titration study, I only slept a few hours due to a nasty head cold. I trust my sleep doc and he's helping work through the issues, it just that there've been so many and my attitude is tanking. Guess that's last night's lousy sleep though.
Again, thanks for the encouragement. I'll strap it on again tonight.
All the best,
LKTNKY
_________________
CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): respironics, resmed, activa, Titration, DME, AHI, auto
I've had a bunch of trouble with my Respironics machines. I've had 3 since January. None of them would consistantly record the data and I've been religious about wearing the mask 99% of the time. I'm still tired and the machines aren't very quiet. The current one wheezes like it has asthma. We're going to the DME tomorrow to exchange the Respironics for a Resmed S8 Auto. My sleep doc balked at first when I asked to exchange the machine but once he understood the amount of trouble I've had and that this exchange is an even exchange (as far as data capable options), then he was back on my side & wrote the scrip.
We have pretty good insurance and the DME has agreed to let me try some masks for 30 days. I tried the Activa but the numbers weren't as good as with the ComfortGel which is anything but comfortable for me - it sits on all the wrong places! And I breathe through my mouth. I look at the data in the morning and have created a simple spreadsheet just to track my AHI & hours slept. I can't trust the smartcard to record the data. Once I get the Resmed, I plan to purchase the card reader & software but I'll have to get it in Australia since I have Vista.
So that's the long version of why I've asked about whether or not you found the other mask(s) comfortable. When I had the titration study, I only slept a few hours due to a nasty head cold. I trust my sleep doc and he's helping work through the issues, it just that there've been so many and my attitude is tanking. Guess that's last night's lousy sleep though.
Again, thanks for the encouragement. I'll strap it on again tonight.
All the best,
LKTNKY
_________________
CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): respironics, resmed, activa, Titration, DME, AHI, auto
Mirage Micro
It is, most certainly, a day to day thing! Once you get a good mask and get the right pressure or pressure range for yourself it becomes second nature - like brushing you teeth! I still have bad nights once in a while though. Last night was a really good night. In fact my AHI was 0.0 last night! I've had that a few times since I got onto the latest pressure range. For now, it's working great. I'm sure the pressure MAY need adjusting over time but I have the auto and I have help on this forum. You have the added advantage of having a helpful and supportive sleep doctor!
Glad to hear that you are getting an auto, no matter the brand name! I have never had a Resmed machine but it's a auto and that's what I look for now! Resmeds have a good name. I'm also very glad to hear that you plan to get the reader and software!!
I have several masks. I like my Snapp the best. I alos like the Comfort Curve and the OptiLife with the Cradle cushions. The reason I like these 3 is because I really don't like masks with a forehead piece or anything that irritates the bridge of my nose (although I do like the Mirage Micro even though it has a forehead piece and a part that sits on my nose bridge). The little adjusting knob on the MIrage Micro really helps with this though.
As I said, masks are so individual though.
Just keep strapping it on!!! We've all been where you are!!
Glad to hear that you are getting an auto, no matter the brand name! I have never had a Resmed machine but it's a auto and that's what I look for now! Resmeds have a good name. I'm also very glad to hear that you plan to get the reader and software!!
I have several masks. I like my Snapp the best. I alos like the Comfort Curve and the OptiLife with the Cradle cushions. The reason I like these 3 is because I really don't like masks with a forehead piece or anything that irritates the bridge of my nose (although I do like the Mirage Micro even though it has a forehead piece and a part that sits on my nose bridge). The little adjusting knob on the MIrage Micro really helps with this though.
As I said, masks are so individual though.
Just keep strapping it on!!! We've all been where you are!!
_________________
| Machine: DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine |
| Mask: AirFit™ P10 Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear |
| Humidifier: DreamStation Heated Humidifier |
| Additional Comments: Backups- FX Nano masks. Backup machine- Airmini auto travel cpap |
[quote="lktnky"]Thanks so much, Hawthorne. It's good to hear encouragement from those who've made it. I think, though, that 'making it' is a day to day thing, yes?
I've had a bunch of trouble with my Respironics machines. I've had 3 since January. None of them would consistantly record the data and I've been religious about wearing the mask 99% of the time. I'm still tired and the machines aren't very quiet. The current one wheezes like it has asthma. We're going to the DME tomorrow to exchange the Respironics for a Resmed S8 Auto. My sleep doc balked at first when I asked to exchange the machine but once he understood the amount of trouble I've had and that this exchange is an even exchange (as far as data capable options), then he was back on my side & wrote the scrip.
We have pretty good insurance and the DME has agreed to let me try some masks for 30 days. I tried the Activa but the numbers weren't as good as with the ComfortGel which is anything but comfortable for me - it sits on all the wrong places! And I breathe through my mouth. I look at the data in the morning and have created a simple spreadsheet just to track my AHI & hours slept. I can't trust the smartcard to record the data. Once I get the Resmed, I plan to purchase the card reader & software but I'll have to get it in Australia since I have Vista.
So that's the long version of why I've asked about whether or not you found the other mask(s) comfortable. When I had the titration study, I only slept a few hours due to a nasty head cold. I trust my sleep doc and he's helping work through the issues, it just that there've been so many and my attitude is tanking. Guess that's last night's lousy sleep though.
Again, thanks for the encouragement. I'll strap it on again tonight.
All the best,
LKTNKY
I've had a bunch of trouble with my Respironics machines. I've had 3 since January. None of them would consistantly record the data and I've been religious about wearing the mask 99% of the time. I'm still tired and the machines aren't very quiet. The current one wheezes like it has asthma. We're going to the DME tomorrow to exchange the Respironics for a Resmed S8 Auto. My sleep doc balked at first when I asked to exchange the machine but once he understood the amount of trouble I've had and that this exchange is an even exchange (as far as data capable options), then he was back on my side & wrote the scrip.
We have pretty good insurance and the DME has agreed to let me try some masks for 30 days. I tried the Activa but the numbers weren't as good as with the ComfortGel which is anything but comfortable for me - it sits on all the wrong places! And I breathe through my mouth. I look at the data in the morning and have created a simple spreadsheet just to track my AHI & hours slept. I can't trust the smartcard to record the data. Once I get the Resmed, I plan to purchase the card reader & software but I'll have to get it in Australia since I have Vista.
So that's the long version of why I've asked about whether or not you found the other mask(s) comfortable. When I had the titration study, I only slept a few hours due to a nasty head cold. I trust my sleep doc and he's helping work through the issues, it just that there've been so many and my attitude is tanking. Guess that's last night's lousy sleep though.
Again, thanks for the encouragement. I'll strap it on again tonight.
All the best,
LKTNKY
_________________
| Mask: Mirage Activa™ LT Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear |
| Additional Comments: HC100 HH, , Activa Orig. (w/Activa LT cushion), Activa LT, Pur Sleep, Pad A Cheeks, |
Joyce
Started using cpap Sept. 12, 2007
Respironics PR System One Bi-Pap Auto w/Flex,pressure of 9/15, do not use ramp
Started using cpap Sept. 12, 2007
Respironics PR System One Bi-Pap Auto w/Flex,pressure of 9/15, do not use ramp
[quote="jsmythe"][quote="lktnky"]Thanks so much, Hawthorne. It's good to hear encouragement from those who've made it. I think, though, that 'making it' is a day to day thing, yes?
I've had a bunch of trouble with my Respironics machines. I've had 3 since January. None of them would consistantly record the data and I've been religious about wearing the mask 99% of the time. I'm still tired and the machines aren't very quiet. The current one wheezes like it has asthma. We're going to the DME tomorrow to exchange the Respironics for a Resmed S8 Auto. My sleep doc balked at first when I asked to exchange the machine but once he understood the amount of trouble I've had and that this exchange is an even exchange (as far as data capable options), then he was back on my side & wrote the scrip.
We have pretty good insurance and the DME has agreed to let me try some masks for 30 days. I tried the Activa but the numbers weren't as good as with the ComfortGel which is anything but comfortable for me - it sits on all the wrong places! And I breathe through my mouth. I look at the data in the morning and have created a simple spreadsheet just to track my AHI & hours slept. I can't trust the smartcard to record the data. Once I get the Resmed, I plan to purchase the card reader & software but I'll have to get it in Australia since I have Vista.
So that's the long version of why I've asked about whether or not you found the other mask(s) comfortable. When I had the titration study, I only slept a few hours due to a nasty head cold. I trust my sleep doc and he's helping work through the issues, it just that there've been so many and my attitude is tanking. Guess that's last night's lousy sleep though.
Again, thanks for the encouragement. I'll strap it on again tonight.
All the best,
LKTNKY
I've had a bunch of trouble with my Respironics machines. I've had 3 since January. None of them would consistantly record the data and I've been religious about wearing the mask 99% of the time. I'm still tired and the machines aren't very quiet. The current one wheezes like it has asthma. We're going to the DME tomorrow to exchange the Respironics for a Resmed S8 Auto. My sleep doc balked at first when I asked to exchange the machine but once he understood the amount of trouble I've had and that this exchange is an even exchange (as far as data capable options), then he was back on my side & wrote the scrip.
We have pretty good insurance and the DME has agreed to let me try some masks for 30 days. I tried the Activa but the numbers weren't as good as with the ComfortGel which is anything but comfortable for me - it sits on all the wrong places! And I breathe through my mouth. I look at the data in the morning and have created a simple spreadsheet just to track my AHI & hours slept. I can't trust the smartcard to record the data. Once I get the Resmed, I plan to purchase the card reader & software but I'll have to get it in Australia since I have Vista.
So that's the long version of why I've asked about whether or not you found the other mask(s) comfortable. When I had the titration study, I only slept a few hours due to a nasty head cold. I trust my sleep doc and he's helping work through the issues, it just that there've been so many and my attitude is tanking. Guess that's last night's lousy sleep though.
Again, thanks for the encouragement. I'll strap it on again tonight.
All the best,
LKTNKY