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

• 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.

CPAP Sanitizer & Cleaner Machine Review: The Lumin™

Today we will be reviewing the Lumin™ CPAP cleaner & sanitizer, providing our pros and cons of this unit from our own experiences, including feedback from our clients across North America. 

Earlier this year, we started carrying a relatively new sanitizing device called the Lumin™ (made by 3B Medical) as an alternative to the very popular SoClean 2 CPAP sanitizing device. The Lumin™ is a sanitizer for everyday household objects like toothbrushes, baby bottles, smartphones, dentures etc... but is also marketed as a CPAP equipment cleaner.   

According to the manufacturer, the Lumin™ CPAP Cleaner & Personal Sanitizer is a waterless sanitizing device that operates by emitting a high energy light within a narrow spectrum referred to as UV-C. They claim this UV light will disinfect up to 99% of detrimental bacteria, pathogens and fungi that can cause infection and illness on items placed inside the chamber.

Simply place household items you wish to sanitize into the chamber, close it and press start and the special UV bulb does all the dirty work.  The manufacturer describes this method as the safest disinfection option on the market. 

Lumin CPAP Cleaner Review: Here’s What We Think 

What Are The Pros Of The Lumin™? 

• It's a quick 5-minute cycle to kill most bacteria and mould on a surface: It takes the same amount of time to brush your teeth in the morning so you can easily sanitize items while you get ready for work or while you are giving your children breakfast. 
• Minimal set-up: It took a couple of minutes from taking it out of the box to our very first sanitizing cycle. The instructions are easy to follow and self-explanatory. 
• Versatile device: You can clean and sanitize almost anything you have around the house - sunglasses, headphones, baby bottles, cell phones etc. 
• It is competitively priced compared to the SoClean 2: Besides the bulb, there are no replacement parts, such as filters and adapters.
• No lasting smell: There is no odour associated with the usage of the Lumin™. 

 What Are The Cons Of This CPAP Cleaning Machine? 

• Cleaning is limited: The Lumin™ CPAP Cleaner and Personal Sanitizer cannot disinfect the inside of your CPAP machine because the UV light cannot reach the inside.  You can use the device to sanitize your mask, standard hose and water chamber.
• The drawer opening to the chamber is not very big: There are limits to what you can and cannot fit into the chamber. This can be frustrating for some users.
• Metallic lining can cause scratches: We found that, if you're not careful, you can scratch yourself or your stuff on the drawer's metallic lining.  As long as you're not rushing, this shouldn't be an issue.

Our Honest Verdict: What We Really Think Of The Lumin™ CPAP Cleaner & Personal Sanitizing Device 

Overall, we think the Lumin™ is a great cleaning product for CPAP equipment but is it right for you? Well, that depends.

In our opinion, if you have little children or elderly family members who are susceptible to getting sick, it is a handy device to have in the house to keep bacteria at bay.  The Lumin™ will help keep you healthy and keep your mask from smelling like an old running shoe. But if you're looking to disinfect your CPAP machine inside and out -- motor and all -- you might want to consider an alternative like the SoClean 2.

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.

1.  Maintain regularity - wake up and go to bed at the same time everyday.
2. Create a dark sleeping atmosphere to encourage the release of melatonin before bed.
3. Create a cool sleeping environment (18 degrees celsius) to initiate good sleep.
4. Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime.
5. Do not stay in bed awake. Watch Matthew Walker, one of our favourite professor of neuroscience and psychology speak about these sleeping tips.

At CPAPmachines.ca, the number one asked question we’re is: would we recommend the AirSense 10 Auto or DreamStation Auto? Which one is better? Which CPAP machine is right for me?

Both machines sit at the top of our best seller’s list month after month. Today we will discuss some of the similarities and differences of both machines to hopefully help you decide which CPAP machine is right for you.

About The Manufacturers

AirSense 10 Auto is made by ResMed, a well-established brand primarily manufacturing equipment for respiratory conditions like sleep apnea. ResMed has manufacturing facilities in Singapore, Australia, France, and the United States.  

Philips Respironics makes the DreamStation Auto. They are an American company, and also a leading manufacturer of an array of respiratory equipment including ventilators and now, household appliances.

Product Warranty

Our machines offer a 3-year manufacturer warranty for both brands.  It is important to note, the 3-year warranty is exclusive to CPAPmachines.ca and is not the default manufacturer warranty. ResMed gets a notable mention as they offer an extended 2-warranty for a total of 5 years for a nominal fee.  

Product Features and Design

The AirSense 10 Auto and DreamStation Auto are both quiet and loaded with comparable features and technology. Both models have their power buttons on top, round dials on the front and LCD colour screens to display compliance info (AHI, leak rate, average usage, hours, usage data etc). They also both come with installed SD cards, accommodate heated and standard hoses, are easy to clean, and offer apps for online support and tracking of sleep data. Both machines are compatible to most styles of CPAP masks.  

The obvious difference between the two models are the design and profile of each machine. The AirSense 10 Auto comes in black or an off-white with floral design “For Her” version. It encompasses a sleek, tall and slender profile, whereas the DreamStation Auto only comes in glossy white and has a shorter, wider profile.  

The humidification of the DreamStation Auto can be detached simply by disconnecting it from the main unit. This option is an important feature for those who travel frequently. This process is less convenient for the AirSense 10 Auto as the humidification is built-in. If you wish to disconnect the humidification from the main unit, you’ll need to purchase a side cover for it. 

Another difference is that the DreamStation Auto offers a ‘ramp’ button on top of the unit next to the start button and AirSense 10 Auto does not. This ‘ramp’ button on top can easily be turned on/off accidentally, where you need to enable/disable the function through the menu on the AirSense 10 Auto. 

In terms of included carrying solutions, The AirSense 10 Auto comes with a durable, well-constructed travel bag while the DreamStation Auto has a flimsier, lighter travel bag.

Our Verdict

Both brands offer very reliable CPAP therapy and both brands have their own loyal customers and following. It truly comes down to personal preference - what you like to see on your night stand, the style and small feature differences of each unit. 

Hopefully after reading this, you can decide for yourself which CPAP machine will be right for you. Both machines will manage your Sleep Apnea and significantly improve your sleep health if used correctly.

Shop for both the AirSense 10 Auto and DreamStation Auto on CPAPMachines.ca today. We offer the lowest prices on CPAP Machines in Canada and free shipping across the country.

From the CPAPmachines.ca clinical team.

By Arthur Allen, WebMD Feature Reviewed by Melinda Ratini, DO, MS

Clues You Might Have Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Do you wake up in the morning with a headache, feeling just as tired as when you went to sleep? Has your spouse moved to the room next door, exhausted by listening to you snore, gasp, and choke every night?

If so, you may have obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) -- a condition where the upper passages of your airway close off, interrupting your breathing and depriving you of oxygen until you wake up and start breathing again. Sleep apnea affects more than 18 million American adults.

How can you tell if you have sleep apnea? The only real way is to have a sleep study, a test that records what happens while you sleep. But there are some common signs of sleep apnea, experts say.

The three main warning signs of obstructive sleep apnea are:

• Loud, persistent snoring
• Pauses in breathing, accompanied with gasping episodes when sleeping
• Excessive sleepiness during waking hours

• Should everyone who snores see a sleep specialist? No, say the experts. “Most people who snore don’t have obstructive sleep apnea, but most people who have apnea snore,” says Robert L. Owens, MD, of the Sleep Disorders Research Program at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. If you have chronic snoring that is loud enough to wake a bed partner, talk to your doctor.

  Like snoring, the most definitive sign of sleep apnea -- waking up to breathe -- is often witnessed by a bed partner. People with sleep apnea frequently wake up for a few seconds to gasp for air. This can happen hundreds of times a night in people with severe sleep apnea, Owens says.

  “If someone witnesses you waking up repeatedly at night, it’s very suggestive of obstructive sleep apnea,” he tells WebMD. “Increasingly, I get wives who come in with little movies on their cell phones that show what their husband looks like at night. That’s very convincing.”

  If you don’t have a bed partner to catch your gasping or snoring on camera, the only signs of sleep apnea you may notice are morning headaches or extreme sleepiness during the day, says Lisa Shives, MD, medical director of Northshore Sleep Medicine in Evanston, Ill.

  Sleep specialists use the Epsworth Sleepiness Scale to measure daytime sleepiness. People with extreme sleep apnea are likely to doze off in the middle of meals or conversations, Shives tells WebMD. Moderate daytime sleepiness, such as the desire to take an afternoon nap, doesn’t necessarily mean you have obstructive sleep apnea.

If you wake up with a very dry mouth and gummy front teeth, it may also be a sign of sleep apnea, Shives says. “My little phrase is, ‘It’s very hard to gasp through your nose.’ People who have obstructive sleep apnea tend to sleep with their mouths open.”