CPAP product reviews and other helpful tips for CPAP users!

Dear CPAPmachines.ca fans, many of you have discovered the latest addition to the DreamStation line, The DreamStation Expert. This newly released Auto-CPAP machine is made especially for patients who complain about pressure resistance when they exhale while using their CPAP.  

If this is you, then the DreamStation Expert is the CPAP Machine you are looking for. This model was built to enhance comfort for new patients acclimatizing to therapy. 

The DreamStation Expert Provides a More Natural Breathing Experience

The major advantage of the DreamStation Expert over the DreamStation Auto is the inclusion of a pressure relief mode during exhalation called the P-Flex.

Other CPAP brands also have this pressure relief mode - ResMed calls it the EPR™ (Expiratory Pressure Relief) and Philips Respironics calls it the FLEX technology. P-Flex intelligently mimics a patient’s individual breathing pattern and lowers the pressure when the patient exhales. With the function enabled, breathing while on therapy feels more natural compared to having to breathe against a constant PAP pressure. (More to come on EPR & FLEX on a future blog).

So why is the P-Flex better than all the other pressure relief functions on the market? Normal pressure relief functions only lower its PAP pressure down to a certain level when expiration is detected. P-Flex, on the other hand, is so intelligent that it detects the onset of inhalation as well as expiration so it delivers the right amount of pressure relief when the patient needs it. This ensures that the P-Flex creates a more smoothing breathing pattern than a traditional pressure relief function, and is unique in being able to adjust its pressure below 3cmH2O. 

With that being said; the DreamStation Expert also provides the same intelligent auto-adjusting functionality as the Auto model. The machine automatically adjusts to your optimal pressure based on your breath throughout the night. 

Our Verdict

This newly-released DreamStation Expert is a more suited choice to those whose exhalation pressure needs vary more often throughout the night. If you’re a brand new CPAP user or If you’ve been complaining to others that you find CPAP hard to adapt to because of the pressurized air, we highly recommend you give this DreamStation Expert a try! This machine is truly an expert in helping new patients who are acclimatizing to therapy.

If you're shopping for a CPAP machine, this blog post is a great place to start. Treating your Sleep Apnea can significantly improve your quality of sleep because life is too short to be tired all the time. To avoid unnecessary stress and buyer's remorse, follow these 5 suggestions to help make your CPAP shopping experience an educated and positive one.  

1. See A Doctor

Before you shell out a bunch of money, make sure you actually need a CPAP machine.  See your physician get a proper diagnosis. Your diagnosis will likely involve a sleep test and based on those results, your doctor will write you a proper CPAP prescription. The prescription will identify:

• What type of Sleep Apnea you have (eg. Obstructive Sleep Apnea or Central Sleep Apnea).
• The CPAP pressure or pressure range you require (prescribed in cmH20).
• What type of CPAP machine is required to treat your Apnea (CPAP, APAP, BiPAP, VPAP etc).

2. Do Your Research

Read and learn as much as you can about Sleep Apnea; the types of treatments available, what type of funding is available from your healthcare system, private insurance policies and how to qualify for them.  Identify popular CPAP brands and the newest CPAP models available. Research different styles and sizes of masks and read up-to-date product reviews on the products you are interested in. Make a list to help you narrow down your search. Arming yourself with knowledge about CPAP helps make informed treatment and buying decisions.

3. Visit Your Local CPAP Vendor

Whether you decide to purchase your CPAP machine in-store or online, visit your local CPAP vendor and browse through displays of various machine and mask selection. Take advantage of the ability to physically see, touch and test features of the potential products you are buying. Ask questions and utilize sales associates for their expertise. Ask for a demonstration to check for the noise level of a machine or to try on a CPAP mask to make sure the fit is right for you.

4. Do A CPAP Trial

Most CPAP vendors offer a 2-4 week trial period, allowing you to rent a CPAP machine and try out the therapy in your own home (for a nominal fee). This trial is tremendously helpful because it allows you to learn how the therapy works, how the equipment functions and what features the best help you adapt to your therapy. You will also quickly learn if a mask is fitting right -- you may switch a few times until you find a suitable face mask that is comfortable for you. At the end of the trial period, you'll have a better idea of purchasing a particular CPAP machine is right for you.

5. Set A Budget

In Canada, CPAP machines often range from $500 - $3000.  The more you are willing to pay the wider range of options: machines, masks, accessories, warranty and aftercare service provided by your CPAP vendor.  But paying more for some bells and whistles doesn't always get you better treatment.  Setting a reasonable budget helps narrow down must-haves and accessories you can forgo.

TIP: Opt for a good quality CPAP main unit with good reviews and take a pass on the travel battery until you have more experience with your starter package.  

Follow our 5 suggestions when you're ready to make a CPAP purchase and you'll have a stress-free buying experience.