NOTE -- before having a sleep study performed
               and you are currently using a machine
                 MAKE sure that the doctor is knowledgeable about YOUR equipment.    


Before the sleep study, the doctor downloaded the information from  my machine.  Based on me exceeding a number of times per hour I stopped breathing, he recommended a sleep study. (I am using the ResMed VpapIII; it is a spontaneous type.)

In addition the new sleep study was to address belching, swallowing air and waking up every two hours.  

I brought my machine and headgear. They were unable to use my machine but I could use my mask..

Two weeks later, the doctor has reviewed the sleep study and recommends new titration levels. In addition, he said the spontaneous type is responsible for you swallowing air. He wrote a prescription for a true bipap machine costing $2400.  
 
The doctor is unable to set any other adjustment in the Clinic menu other than titration levels.

I am looking for a different doctor that will be able to optimizing the ResMed machine; would like have data to back up the doctor's claim ResMed VpapIII will cause patient to swallow air.

Houston, TX
 
8/5/08

NO reflux, GERD or weak LES (lower esophageal sphincter) when examined with the last year.

Titration levels changed; AHI running below 5. Belching reduced and tolerable.



Last edited by k56q on Tue Aug 05, 2008 3:19 pm; edited 1 time in total

I've not used the VPAP III and have no experience w/it. However, ANY CPAP can cause aerophagia (swallowing air) and often a bi-level is scripted to relieve the aerophagia when a pressure change is not effective, sometimes "just" an autoPAP can eliminate aerophagia.

Have you been examined for silent reflux, GERD and weak LES (lower esophageal sphincter)? Often treating that will reduce or eliminate aerophagia.

I'm out of my league regarding the various types of higher level xPAPs and RADs so I'm not familiar w/the advantages/disadvantages of a VPAP III vs my Resmed S8 VPAP Auto and can offer no further comments except that IF you have insurance and your sleep doctor scripts a new device, possibly w/a Letter of Medical Necessity, in addition to the results of your current study most insurances will purchase the new device on the same terms as your VPAP III was purchased. Possibly you could then sell your VPAP III to recoup some of your copay. Or it may be if you are still w/in your "rent to own" term the exchange could be made even up.


_________________
Some people are like Slinkies... Not really good for anything, but they still bring a smile to your face when you push them down a flight of stairs.
Resmed VPAP Auto. Humidaire 3i, Simplicity & Micro masks, ResScan 3.4, S8 ResLink, Embla oximeter.