There are a variety of different CPAP machines available in the market, because of this selecting the best CPAP for you based on your needs can be tough. I have created a questionnaire here which will help you to lower the choices. After you answer the questions, you will be able to easily select a CPAP machine.
The Different CPAP Machines
First some knowledge on the different types of CPAP machines is necessary. The machines which can currently be found on the market are:
- The traditional CPAP
- Auto-Adjusting or APAP machines &
- Bi-level or Bi-PAP machine
The Questions Which You Should Ask Yourself
- Check the prescription and find out which machine has been prescribed by your doctor?
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or
- Auto-Adjusting Positive Airway Pressure or
- Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure
2. Do you require a machine which has support for exhalation relief?
(Exhalation relief will be required for people who use their CPAP in a high pressure setting. If exhalation relief is absent, then breathing out will be tough and irritating)
“If you require only this condition then you can purchase a Bi-PAP or an APAP”
- Yes or
- No
3. Do you need your CPAP machine to auto adjust its pressure on a breath by breath basis according to your needs?
(Breath by breath basis means, than the CPAP will analyze your breathe and supply only the minimum amount of pressure which is required to keep the airway open)
“If your answer is yes to this question then you MUST purchase an APAP machine”
- Yes
- No
4. Do you require a CPAP machine which weighs less than 5 pounds?
“If your answer is yes, then you must purchase the newer models of CPAP’s which are currently available in the market. They will cost more, but they will be highly portable”
- Yes
- No
5. Do you need a CPAP which works quietly without producing any noise?
“If your answer is yes, then purchase the newer versions of CPAP’s currently available in the market, they are designed scientifically to produce a sound of lesser than 20db. This will allow your partner to sleep peacefully”
- Yes
- No
6. Do you require a DC power cable option with your CPAP?
“If you answered with a Yes, then check the machine to ensure that you’re CPAP has a DC power cable. Most of the current generation models work with both DC and AC so this should not be a problem”
- Yes
- No
7. Do you need a CPAP which can track your therapy progress?
“If yes, then make sure your CPAP is data tracking capable!”
- Yes
- No
After you answer the above questions take the answers to your CPAP dealer and the customer service executive will be able to get you the perfect CPAP based on your needs and requirements.
