We’ve all been asking the same question, why doesn’t any travel machines come with a humidifier? Well, the solution is finally here; Philips just introduced the heated humidifier for the DreamStation Go travel machine. Ever since the lightweight travel system DreamStation Go came out, we’ve been told by Philips that the heated humidifier would soon be available. After months of waiting, the tiniest travel humidifier is finally available!

You might ask why having a humidifier was never an option for travel machines until now, the major difficulty of designing a travel humidifier is its size. It is hard to integrate a humidifier chamber onto such small units. That is why Philips Respironics developed a new “water-saving” technology which allows the humidification level to adjust automatically in order to deliver the right therapy setting. Thanks to this “water-saving” technology, Philips now developed a portable humidifier for travel machines that only adds an additional 0.76 lbs to the already lightweight machine!

Not only is the DreamStation Go humidifier lightweight and small; it is also safe to use regular tap water or bottled water instead of having to specifically look for distilled water while you are travelling.

So, what are the pros and cons of bringing a travel humidifier instead of using the HME filters? Well, let’s take a look:

PROS

• No replacement parts needed
• Use tap or bottled water
• Provides humidification evenly throughout the night
• Ability to increase or decrease humidity as required
• No need to keep track on HME expiry date
• No disposal and no waste

CONS

• Only compatible with DreamStation Go Travel System
• Takes up more space compared to the HME filters

In my option, I would want my travel baggage to be as light as possible. Therefore, I would prefer just to bring an HME filter with me on a short trip. (see below HME)

 

However, if I was going away for up to a month, and/or going to a place where the weather would be more drying, then I would recommend bringing the travel humidifier with you on the go.

So, my final verdict is that if you are someone who goes on long trips often, this travel humidifier would be a great investment! Whereas, just take an HME filter with you on those short business trips out of the country.

If packing up your CPAP before your flight gives you a hard time but using those HME filters is not enough to provide moisture during the night, you can now purchase all of these items on our website! Please visit each of the links below to purchase the parts that you need!

 

• DreamStation GO Travel System
• DreamStation Go Travel Humidifier
• DreamStation Go Overnight Battery

Already purchased the DreamStation Go Travel humidifier? Not a problem, visit the link below to watch how you could assemble the DreamStation Go humidifier to your existing DreamStation Go travel machine.

How to assemble DreamStation Heated Humidifier 

If you’re researching or shopping for a new CPAP machine, chances are you are either new to CPAP therapy or you’re replacing the one you already have. We’ve said this many times before, CPAP machines these days are packed with incredible technology. But what exactly is this technology? 

CPAP machines have integrated wireless and battery-powered options, Bluetooth capabilities, remote monitoring and reports at your fingertips through apps on your phone. Another technology which we will be focusing on is a technology called Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) or FLEX which are both features to increase comfort and compliance for all users. 

What exactly is EPR or FLEX? Continue reading as we break down some fancy acronyms and abbreviations. Learn what EPR means and the difference between the types of Flex available as we simplify the terms much as we can. Here we go!

What Is Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR)?

CPAP machines have “comfortable” settings that allow CPAP therapy to mimic your natural breathing pattern as much as possible. ResMed calls this feature EPR while Philips Respironics calls this comfort feature, Flex.

ResMed defines their comfort setting as EPR - Expiratory Pressure Relief. In other words, making it easier for you to exhale or providing a deeper exhale with each breath while on CPAP therapy. For example, your CPAP pressure setting is 10cmH20 with function EPR 3 on...you would be inhaling at 10chH20 and exhaling at a dropped pressure of 7cmH20 and will return to 10cmH20 on the inhale.

There are 4 settings for Expiratory Pressure Relief on a ResMed machine: OFF, Setting 1 = mild comfort (1 cm H20), Setting 2 = medium comfort (2 cm H20), Setting 3 = maximum comfort (3 cm H20).

What Is Flex Technology? 

Philip Respironics calls their comfort setting Flex. Flex comfort feature provides users with pressure relief on various (CPAP, APAP or BiPAP) modes of therapy. There are various types of Flex available. C-Flex, A-Flex, Bi-Flex and C-Flex+.

 

C-Flex Pressure: Breakdown

C-Flex, identical to EPR on ResMed, lowers pressure during exhalation for users to adjust to CPAP therapy and works on a breath-by-breath basis.  Using the same example from earlier, if your CPAP pressure setting is 10cmH20 with function EPR 3 on...then, you would be inhaling at 10cmH20 and exhaling at a dropped pressure of 7cmH20 and will return to 10cmH20 on the inhale.

C-Flex also has 4 settings for on their machines: OFF, Setting 1 = mild comfort (1 cm H20), Setting 2 = medium comfort (2 cm H20), Setting 3 = maximum comfort (3 cm H20)

Following along so far? Good, let’s keep going.

 

Bi-Flex Pressure: Breakdown

Bi-Flex works on BiPAP mode and offers pressure relief at both inhalation and exhalation. The Bi-flex setting offers pressure relief at 3 important areas - the transition from exhalation to inhalation, the transition from inhalation to exhalation and during the exhalation.

A-Flex Pressure: Breakdown 

A-Flex works within Auto-CPAP mode. Like C-Flex, A-Flex provides pressure relief at the beginning of exhalation and like Bi-Flex softens transition avoiding spike ups from inhalation to exhalation. It's a smoother and more comfortable feeling. A-Flex mimics your natural breath the most.

C-Flex+ (Plus) Pressure: Breakdown

C-Flex+ (Plus) is a newer setting within the more advanced CPAP machines when in fixed-CPAP mode.  Like C-Flex, C-Flex+ provides pressure relief at the beginning of exhalation. Like A-Flex, C-Flex+ offers a smoother and softer transitioning from inhalation to exhalation providing additional comfort when in fixed-CPAP mode.

If you got a blank stare and feeling a bit confused, we don’t blame you - it can be confusing. The take-home message is Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) and Flex are both comfort settings available on ResMed and Respironics machines. They come in different modes to ultimately make your adjustment to Sleep Apnea therapy more comfortable by mirroring your most natural breathing patterns possible regardless of your CPAP pressure.

Which Comfort Function Is Best For You And Your CPAP Machine?

Which function is best for you? Ultimately, it comes down to personal comfort and preference. You’ll need to give the functions at various settings a test drive. Some people like EPR and Flex, some don’t use them and others even dislike these comfort settings. These settings may bring on other problems - possibly make your apnea better or worse or the pressure changes may increase your chances of experiencing CPAP mask leaks.

After all, that’s said, many do find the comfort functions helpful. This is the part where we say try it, see what setting works best for you!

 

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.

If you read our previous blog on the AirMini™ then welcome to part 2 of that discussion!  For those of you who didn't: in a nutshell, we highlighted the AirMini™ travel-specific unit and listed some of the accessories and add-ons we found to be the most impressive. The goal is to help savvy customers like yourself customized a travel unit to best fit your adventurous needs.

Next up on the list, (also the last) quickly became a bestseller in the travel category - the Dreamstation Go Auto CPAP. Continue reading to learn more on which accessories are worth buying and which ones to pass on.  

Dreamstation Go

A relatively new release, the Dreamstation Go by Philips Respironics made its way onto the Canadian market (and into our hearts), spring of 2018. It was designed to be a direct competitor to the beloved and highly buzzed about AirMini™. The Dreamstation Go is a small, sleek and compact, but don't be fooled by appearances:  it weighs more than it looks.

Notable differences between the Dreamstation Go and the AirMini™ - the Dreamstation Go has a touch screen, full compatibility with all CPAP masks and compatibility to various heated and standard tubing!

Sounds good so far doesn’t it? Let’s move on to it’s accessories.

Heat/Moisture Exchanger (HME) Filter

As mentioned in our look at the AirMini™, travel units do not come with built in humidification chambers. Travel units use a waterless technology in the form of dry filters or tablets that provide moisture and heat. But Respironics does not make a waterless solution exclusive to the Dreamstation Go.  You can get a third party heat/moisture exchanger.  The HME filter accessory from the Z1™ Auto travel CPAP by HDM works pretty well on the Dreamstation.  Those filters are  certified for 7 full days of use.

Small or Medium Travel Kit

Personally, I am at the mercy of any attractively designed case or bag.  Philips Respironics has travel cases for the Dreamstation.  The smallest (below, on the left) is sturdy, stylish and rugged enough, but it is big enough to fit only the Dreamstation unit itself.  

               

There's a medium size case (above, centre) that's more robust and can store both the main unit and the optional battery (which we'll talk about next). Both Small and Medium Travel Kits have a zipper closure and come with a separate washable canvas bag (top, right) to house your mask and tubing.   

Dreamstation Go Overnight Battery

One of the core features of the Dreamstation Go is it’s exclusive overnight battery. Weighing in at 1.53lbs, it’s designed to match the look of the Dreamstation Go. First, remove the panel on the unit to reveal the battery port.  The overnight battery connects seamlessly to the unit, giving you about 13 hours of uninterrupted therapy (at 10cmH20 pressure) on a 4-to-5 hour charge.  

                    

Medistrom™ Pilot-12 Lite Battery & Backup Power Supply

Although Philips Respironics makes a cordless backup and overnight battery exclusively for the Dreamstation Go, there are other options. Choice One Medical released the Medistrom™ Pilot-12 Lite as an alternative portable battery for the Dreamstation Go (also compatible with other CPAP brands and devices). A 3-hour charge with the Dreamstation AC Adapter can power up to 2 nights of therapy (on average pressure of 10 cmH20) with humidification and heated tubing disabled if using with main units.  

There you have it, that’s a wrap on the Dreamstation Go. Completely in love? We know, we are too. We hope you enjoyed our informal “part one” and “part two” ongoing discussion of the tech- filled travel CPAPs and all their accessories.

The take home message? Regardless of which travel CPAP you invest in, both machines offer consistent and reliable therapy. It truly comes down to personal preferences in brands, look, compatibility and accessories. Now leaving your CPAP therapy at home is a thing of the past.

Often when we get busy with our lives, our sleep tends to be one of the first thing that suffers. Work, family life and social commitments seems to come first and sleep falls to the wayside. Did you know your sleep health is vital to being healthy and is just as important, if not more than diet and exercise?  When we sleep, our bodies are regenerating, repairing and healing itself. Prolong lack of sleep will spread and erode your health in the form of chronic illness and diseases. The brain alone requires sleep to function properly – to maintain body temperature, our immune system and to keep our hormones balance. If you wake up each morning not feeling refreshed and energized, suffer from morning headaches and a constant state of excessive daytime sleepiness, have difficulty concentrating, you should consider speaking to your physician to see if a sleep test is right for you. If you have the  following symptoms and on top of that are overweight and have heart issues or family history of sleep apnea, consult your doctor immediately about getting a sleep study.

What is a sleep study? A sleep study is an overnight sleep study at a sleep clinic or a take home device that electronically records the body's activity during sleep. A report is generated on your brain activity, eye movements, heart patterns, oxygen and carbon dioxide blood levels, major muscle movements as well as breathing and snoring activity. This test can detect common sleep disorders and treatment are available.

If left untreated, sleep disorders can result in a growing number of other health issues:

• High BP
• Depression
• GERD
• Diabetes
• Frequent urination at night
• Multiple Sclerosis (MS) - Sleep apnea is very common in people with MS for another reason. MS attacks myelin -- the coating that surrounds and protects nerve cells. It leaves behind scars called lesions in your brain and spinal cord. Damage from MS can make it harder for your brain to control your breathing while you sleep.
• Chronic Pain

It is imperative to start a discussion with your physician if any of the signs and symptoms apply to you. Eating well and exercise won’t matter if your sleep health is deteriorating.

SoClean 2 CPAP Equipment Cleaner Review

One of our very best sellers to keep our client's CPAP equipment in tip-top shape would hands down be the SoClean 2 CPAP Cleaner made by BetterRest Solutions. Whether you're using a ResMed or Respironics CPAP machine, this specially designed apparatus is compatible with most CPAP manufacturers. The SoClean 2 uses an activated oxygen technology to keep your CPAP equipment safe and germ-free. The activated oxygen technology, also known as ozone eliminates 99% of germs and bacteria that may be lingering in your CPAP equipment. 

The SoClean 2 is a waterless one-step cleaning system for your CPAP's main unit, water chamber, hoses and CPAP masks. The filter and check valve in the unit requires replacement approximately every 6 months.

 

SoClean 2: What Are The Pros And Cons?

 

As with all CPAP cleaning equipment, there are advantages and disadvantages. Below, we list the highlighted pros and cons of the SoClean 2 CPAP Sanitizer.

List Of Pros:

• QUICK: A sufficient 10-minute cycle is all that’s needed to destroy most bacteria and mould in and around your CPAP equipment after usage.
• SMART: Auto-Start function is available for users to set a specific time where the unit will start automatically. Simply wake up, put accessories in the SoClean 2 and go.
• COMPLETE SANITIZATION: SoClean 2 not only sanitizes your mask, tubing and water chamber, but the ozone also penetrates deep into your CPAP machine (all the crevices)  to kill 99% germs that are trapped inside the machine motor.

 

List Of Cons:

• REPLACEMENT: It is required to replace the filter and check valve approximately every 6 months. This is an added cost to maintaining the unit.
• EXTRA PARTS: You can only sanitize the water chamber if you purchase the appropriate adapter for your model of CPAP machine.
• LAG TIME: If using SoClean 2 prior to CPAP therapy, it’s required to wait 4-6 hours following sanitizing to using your CPAP equipment for the ozone to dissipate.
• ODOUR: Clients report there is a mild ozone scent that quickly dissipates once the cycle has completed.

 

Our Final Verdict: What We Really Think Of This CPAP Cleaner

 

The SoClean 2 delivers on its promises - it's reliable and easy to use. We highly recommend the unit. Many of us are unaware CPAP equipment is a breeding ground for microorganisms. Water and soap are effective for cleaning facial oils and dirt, but won’t suffice for germs and bacteria. 

If you find you’re getting sick frequently or suffer from a lingering sickness, contaminated CPAP equipment could be the source. Weigh the pros and cons and consider investing in a CPAP sanitizer to keep germs at bay. A CPAP sanitizer will ultimately improve your experience with CPAP therapy and enhance your overall sleep health.

CPAPmachines.ca friends, family & clients,

This compelling sleep article covers the basics of sleep and what happens when we fall asleep. If you have a few minutes, take the time to read this incredible piece that appears in the August 2018 issue of National Geographic magazine called

While We Sleep, Our Mind Goes on an Amazing Journey

Written by: MICHAEL FINKEL

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/magazine/2018/08/science-of-sleep/

Thank you so much Canada, for all your feedback on our previous blog showing the similarities and differences between AirSense 10 Auto and Dreamstation Auto. You all had great points of why each of you preferred one unit over another. We've complied some of your suggestions and input and the results still show they are very comparable units. Take a look at your input on the chart above.