Maybe I’m just getting used to my CPAP (Respironics RemStar M-series), but I’ve noticed over the past several nights that it SEEMS that the pressure is significantly less at 2AM than it is when I go to bed (last night around midnight).   I’m not positive this is true, but it seems like the effort required to exhale is higher early than later.

I probably will call the DME today, but was curious if its possible to monitor the performance of the machine using the data it provides (mine is NOT a fully data capable machine, so its "compliance data" only - only I don’t know what that is other than a big number that it seems to store.

Have you seen this in the past, or is it possible/likely that I’m just acclimating to the machine?

jc

You are having a very common experience which, in most cases, is due to acclimation.  It nevers hurts to check out your CPAP.

Vicki


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That which does not kill you makes you stronger-Friedrich Nietzsche
Friedrich must of had apnea.

Vicki wrote:

You are having a very common experience which, in most cases, is due to acclimation.  It nevers hurts to check out your CPAP.

Vicki

Vicki, thanks for the reply... Im hoping that is the case, but will likely have it checked anyway.

jc

milehighjc wrote:

Maybe I’m just getting used to my CPAP (Respironics RemStar M-series), but I’ve noticed over the past several nights that it SEEMS that the pressure is significantly less at 2AM than it is when I go to bed (last night around midnight).   I’m not positive this is true, but it seems like the effort required to exhale is higher early than later.

Most likely, you are just getting used to it.  My pressure is @15 and after just a few nights I awoke to fint that my machine was off.....until I removed the mask and realized it really was ON and blowing full speed!  Your lungs/body adapt quickly.

"Maybe I’m just getting used to my CPAP (Respironics RemStar M-series), but I’ve noticed over the past several nights that it SEEMS that the pressure is significantly less at 2AM than it is when I go to bed (last night around midnight). I’m not positive this is true, but it seems like the effort required to exhale is higher early than later."
 
Yes, you are probably just getting used to the CPAP. There are times I wake up thinking my mask is gone and find out it's still on my face!  But you would be wise to have the pressure checked. It can be done quickly and it will put you at ease so that you won't have that worry keeping you awake.  
Compliance data just records how many days and hours you have used your machine.
Good luck and happy dreams!
Grandma


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ResMed Quattro Full Face Mask
ResMed S8 Escape with heated humidifier
Pressure set at 10

Grandma wrote:

Good luck and happy dreams!
Grandma

I like that signature... and it does tell the story!  Ive noticed that I dream again - until I got the CPAP, I can remember the last time I dreamed.

jc

Update - took machine in today, the DME tested it and it passed with flying colors, although I still wonder.   It always seems to be on the mark when I first go to bed - its 3-4 hours later when I noticed it.

In any case, Im now switching masks from a ComfortGel to a OptiLife.   Im really hopefull that will be the end of the leaks and/or sore nose.

jc

I'm pretty new to cpap, and I noticed the same thing.  I can always feel it at first - I sort of hate that first blast of pressure, actually - but in the night, if I wake up, it's like I'm just breathing normally.

Here's a quick way to set your mind at ease when that happens:  Open your mouth!

You'll feel the air blasting out of your mouth and that's how you know the pressure is still on.  =)

merentha wrote:

I'm pretty new to cpap, and I noticed the same thing.  I can always feel it at first - I sort of hate that first blast of pressure, actually - but in the night, if I wake up, it's like I'm just breathing normally.

Here's a quick way to set your mind at ease when that happens:  Open your mouth!

You'll feel the air blasting out of your mouth and that's how you know the pressure is still on.  =)

Yep, Ive done that trick, and there is definitely still pressure there.  I still wonder if its LESS than what I start with, but I had the DME check it, and we couldnt find any sign of trouble.    I do think that blast of air coming out of my mouth is one of the strangest sensations.  

Just changed masks to an OptiLife... kinda hard to get used too (nasal pilllow), but I think Im going to like it better.  Its a lot smaller, and less intrusive, especially when I roll to my side.

jc

I have the same machine and I notice the same thing.  Also I am breathing a lot slower at 2am due to sleeping and needing less O2.  I am sure it is just that we get used to it.

By the way, the Optilife nasal pillows are great but if you have problems, try the next larger pillow size ..... you'll be amazed how much difference it makes.

mine records data too,  it will tell me how long i use my CAPA, how long i use it for,

Mullerbrau wrote:

I have the same machine and I notice the same thing.  Also I am breathing a lot slower at 2am due to sleeping and needing less O2.  I am sure it is just that we get used to it.

By the way, the Optilife nasal pillows are great but if you have problems, try the next larger pillow size ..... you'll be amazed how much difference it makes.

Last night I woke up at about 2AM, sore nose, and having leak problems.   In frustration, I got up and changed to the next larger pillow.   It was amazing how much more comfortable and quiet it was after changing.

jc

milehighjc wrote:

Last night I woke up at about 2AM, sore nose, and having leak problems.   In frustration, I got up and changed to the next larger pillow.   It was amazing how much more comfortable and quiet it was after changing.

jc

Yup, I was amazed that my DME told me that MED was my size (a year ago) and it leaked terribly, made my nose sore, etc.  Just a few weeks ago I tried the MED again for a night and you know what?  It still sucked.

I'm new to CPAP too and am experiencing that problem as well. I noticed that the problem happened when I was sleeping on my side.  This may or may not be true, but I when I tested my mask, I noticed a slightly different air flow when the mask rotater was on a 45 degree angle.  I put my machine and tubing behind my bed so that this doesn't happen and I haven't experienced the problem since.
Just a thought.
Sheri

ooops I should have said 45 to 90 degree angle.  Anyway, you get my meaning :)
Sheri