How do I know which CPAP I need?
The
specification of which flow device you require should be outlined on your
prescription. Most commonly it will either read 'CPAP', 'BIPAP',
"VPAP" or 'APAP'.
There are some variations on these designations. If you have any questions,
please feel free to contact
us.
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What is a CPAP?
CPAP
is an acronym for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. A CPAP machine delivers a
single, constant pressure. The pressure insures an open airway by displacing
the soft tissue causing the obstruction.
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What is a CPAP with C-Flex?
CFLEX
is a technology patented by Respironics Corporation several years ago. CFLEX
is a comfort option that can be turned on or off. If turned on, it will
decrease pressure during exhalation, by up to 1, 2 or 3cm of water pressure. A setting
of CFLEX translates, literally, to the amount of pressure decreased during
exhalation - i.e. a CFLEX of 2 means the pressure given
during inhalation will drop by approximately 2cm h20 during exhalation. This
option is of great assistance to new users of CPAP therapy in particular. During the first
couple weeks of therapy, it can be a challenge to adjust to the sensation
of a consistent pressure - CFLEX goes a long way in easing the CPAP user
into this new way of breathing. The same technology in the ResMed product is
called Expiratory Pressure Relief, or EPR.
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What is an APAP (Auto-Titrating CPAP)?
Auto
titration machines will 'self adjust' to deliver the least amount of pressure
required to keep the airway open, or 'patent'. It is most commonly used for individuals that cannot perform a formal polysomagraphy or
individuals that are being reevaluated at some point after their initial
study. An
auto titration device is set using a maximum and minimum pressure 'window'.
The machine will operate within these given parameters using an algorithm to deliver the least
amount of pressure needed with any given breath. Many physicians will
prescribe an auto titration device for those individuals that have all the
clinical manifestations of obstructive sleep apnea, but are unable to perform
a full polysomography for physical or financially reasons. Auto titration represents
some the most advanced technology on the market today for the treatment of
obstructive sleep apnea.
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What is a BIPAP (Bi-level)?
A
BIPAP machine is fundamentally different then a CPAP machine. With a BIPAP
device, you set both an inspiratory and seperate, lesser expiratory pressure
(in setting them both to the same pressure, you would have CPAP).
BIPAP's are most commonly prescribed for individuals that have higher inspiratory
pressure requirements or for those individuals that are having a hard time
adjusting to CPAP therapy. It may also be noted that the sensation of breathing
on a BIPAP machine is much different than breathing on a CPAP machine.
Many individuals find it much easier to breathe on a BIPAP device because of
the added feature of pressure support, and various other comfort options
available exclusively to BIPAP machines. Generally speaking, this advanced
technology is why you
see higher pricing for BIPAP machines.
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What is a humidifier, and why do I need one?
The
use of a humidifier is subjective to the individual. Ideally a
humidifier should be incorporated into your therapy regimen, in that it does,
what the nose does not have time to do, when on CPAP/BIPAP. In other words, when
you breathe in normally, without the use of a CPAP or BIPAP, the nose will
slowly heat and humidify the air before it reaches the lung field. With the
'rush of air' experienced during CPAP/BIPAP, the nose does not have time to
address the increased flow. That said, about 40-50% of the population that use CPAP
and BIPAP do not use humidification - at least not full time, as it does require increase maintenance
time.
A humidifier should be emptied daily, and refilled nightly, prior to sleep with
distilled or de-ionized water. It should
be thoroughly cleaned at least once a week with a (2:1) water and vinegar solution. You increase your susceptibility to upper respiratory tract
infections if you do not keep up good maintenance on your humidifier reservoir.
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What type of mask systems are available?
There are three basic
nasal interface systems available. The most popular system is the
[traditional] nasal mask. The nasal mask is an interface that completely covers your nose, and is held in place
with headgear. You must be able to keep your mouth closed at all times to make this mask system work.
A very popular, and less cumbersome system is the nasal pillow mask. This type of mask system is held in place by headgear, and the interface touches your nose only at the edge
and/or just inside the
nostrils. This works well for those individuals that like to read or watch
TV prior to bed. It should be noted that when using an Auto titration
machine, the use of nasal pillows is not recommended. The third nasal interface
system is called the full face mask - which is a bit of a misnomer as the mask
only covers your nose and mouth. This mask is most commonly used in those individuals
that start to mouth breathe upon entering REM sleep, when your smooth
muscles dilate. Many times the smooth muscle dilation of those muscles controlling
your jaw will cause you to open your mouth, and allow air to leak through.
If this happens, it largely renders your positive pressure therapy
ineffective.
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Do all masks come with headgear?
All
masks are sold factory sealed, to include headgear.
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Which is better, a nasal pillow mask or a nasal mask?
Deciding
on what mask works best for you, is much like deciding on your favorite pair
of shoes. It is a very individual decision. It is recommended that you start
with a nasal mask system, and as you begin to settle into therapy, open your
options to different types of interface systems. It is not uncommon to
customize your mask, to fit just right for you. The manufacturers work hard
to develop a one style mask fits all; but as a practical matter, most people
will attempt at least some customization of their mask, to make it most
comfortable for their sleep experience. The most important thing to remember
when customizing your mask [fit] is not to block what are called the intentional
leak ports. That port will be addressed later.
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How do I know which size mask to buy?
For
the traditional Respironics nasal masks, we offer free downloadable sizing
templates on our site at the following location:
http://www.secondwindcpap.com/Masks.html.
There are other sizing templates available
on our mask
page.
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How do you keep dust from entering your mask?
Every unit comes with a filter or filters. Some systems come with a washable foam style filter that traps most dust and pollen. You can rinse this type of filter regularly and use it for many months. A paper filter is available for some models for patients with allergy problems. This type of filter is commonly called an "ultra-fine filter" and traps much smaller particles.
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How
long does it take to get use to CPAP/BIPAP Therapy?
On average, it
takes about 1-3 weeks before you are sleeping all night with the mask on.
Some people will take to therapy without a period of acclimation; Although they are the exception to the
rule - the point is that the length of time varies from person to person. The
important thing to remember is that, as with anything else, after a short
time, it really does become second nature - As much a part of your sleep
routine as the way you fold your pillow.
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How do I breathe when I have a cold or plugged nose?
There
are various ways to address this issue. The most common way is to use a
Breathe-Right nasal Strip or nasal decongestant spray. Having a full face
mask on stand by is also a good idea. If you experience any discomfort when
wearing your CPAP or BIPAP during a period of time of sinus congestion, ear
infection, etc, it is recommended to cease use of the machine, until you
have consulted with
your doctor.
How loud is a CPAP Machine?
Most
manufacturers list the noise output level of a standard CPAP machine is
between 25- 30
decibels. Formally, 30 decibels is considered "almost total
silence". The sound a machine outputs does vary on the make and model,
and smaller does not always mean louder. If looking to purchase one machine
over another, I would suggest looking at various CPAP chat rooms and blogs
to see what users have to say.
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What is
an Intentional Leak Port?
Yes, every mask system requires exhalation ports. This is a way to remove your exhaled air from the mask system.
Some masks have holes to vent the carbon dioxide, some vent at the elbow, and some vent in a swivel. So when you put on your new mask you will be able to determine where the vent ports are located.
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How long will my CPAP last?
The
average life expectancy of a CPAP or BIPAP machine is approximately 20,000
hours, or roughly 7-8 years full time use. That said, many times, if
properly cared for, these devices will last much longer. Many properly
maintained machines will last upwards of 50,000 hours.
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Why
should I buy a used machine?
Every machine we sell is pressure tested prior
to resale to insure that your device is pressure-accurate. By the time we
are finished cleaning the used cpap or used bipap machines we offer, they are as
clean as if they just left the manufacturer. The inside of the machines are
cleaned with a combination of Ozone, and UV-C light; The same sterilizing techniques used for surgical
equipment, and in dentist offices around the country. Externally, we clean
the devices with a biodegradable solution that is used in hospitals across
the country to provide a completely sanitized surface. We pride ourselves on
providing a clean, quality used cpap/bipap machine.
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Do I need a prescription to order a CPAP
All CPAP/BIPAP machines are
considered Class II medical devices and require a 'doctor's note'. If you already use a
CPAP and are looking for a replacement, back up etc, please call us. We have created a
"Physician Authorization
Form" to assist you in getting your doctor to sign off on your new
or used CPAP. Many times, your
doctor's office will assist you without requiring an office visit; They understand that you need replacement equipment
and in many cases your insurance company does not cover the equipment. We can help you facilitate this process, as there are
several options available to you. The bottom line is we will be happy to
work with you to get the machine you need. Please
give
us a call or email
us.
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If I don't like my cpap, can I return it?
All
sales are final. Please refer to our
return
policy
if you need more information with regard to warranty returns, or
contact
us
with any questions you may have.
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How do you sell items so cheap?
The
markup placed on new CPAP/BIPAP equipment is set at the Federal level by Medicare
reimbursement schedules. That pricing is consistent with what most DME
suppliers charge. Subsequently, the secondary market yields much lower
pricing. What is most important when buying a previously used device, is
that the device has been properly cleaned, and tested before it is offered
in the secondary market. We have made our reputation by setting our
standards very high in the machines we offer.
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Are you open on weekends?
Our
hours are Monday-Friday 9:00a.m.-5:00p.m. Central. If you desire a
consultation with our Respiratory Therapist after hours, we will do our best
to set an appointment time that meets your needs.
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What is the benefit of buying from
www.SecondWindCPAP.com?
Secondwind CPAP was created in 2005 to assist
those who find themselves in a position of having to pay out of pocket for CPAP
or BIPAP equipment.
We are a small business, located in a small town (Tracy, MN) in Southwestern, Minnesota.
We are truly family owned and operated, and as such, we look upon the business as a member of our family in many ways. We take great pride in providing an
excellent product, and knowledgeable, personalized customer service. When
you call, we take as much time as YOU need to get all your questions
answered. We have
been registered with the Minnesota/North Dakota Better Business Bureau since our
inception in 2005, and have never had a complaint logged against us. We have worked
hard for our reputation, and look forward to working with you to fulfill
your CPAP or BIPAP needs.
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