If your loved one has been diagnosed with sleep apnea, and your doctor has prescribed use of a continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP, machine, it can be difficult to decide which one will best suit your needs. Because it is not always covered by insurance, and you are going to need it for a long time, it is best to compare the available models before you purchase a CPAP machine. Here are a few factors to consider.
Portability
If you find yourself frequently traveling for business or pleasure, be sure to choose a model that is portable, compact, and easy to take with you.
The 420G Traveler, ZzzPap, M Series Remstar Plus DS200, and the AEIOMed Everest 2 CPAP machines are all relatively small, but the Everest 2 is the smallest even with the optional heated humidifier attached. All of these machines are available with an optional DC power supply for you car's cigarette lighter with the exception of the ZzzPap. The AEIOMed Everest 2 is the only CPAP machine that can be run with an optional integrated battery, making it the ideal choice for traveling by airplane.
Heated Humidifier
Clinical research has shown that CPAP patients tend to be more compliant with the addition of heated humidity to their CPAP program. All four machines have an optional heated humidifier available, but only the Everest 2's humidifier can also be powered by the DC power supply. When choosing a CPAP machine with the heated humidifier, keep in mind how much space the machine will take up with the humidifier attached.
Adjustable Ramp and Exhalation Pressure Relief
Ramp is used to temporarily lower the air pressure initially to allow the CPAP machine user to fall asleep more easily. The pressure then gradually increases to the prescribed level. Adjustable ramp settings allow the user to set the amount of time it takes for the CPAP machine to reach the prescribed level. For instance, the Everest 2 allows the user to set the ramp time between 5 - 45 minutes in 5 minute increments.
Some CPAP machines, such as the Remstar Plus, include a feature the decreases the air flow pressure when you exhale. Exhalation pressure relief is usually not a necessary feature, and most CPAP machines that include it are much more expensive.