How To Change The Pressure Settings On A ResMed Airsense 10 CPAP Machine
Many patients just beginning their CPAP therapy may experience difficulty getting used to the air pressure from their CPAP machine. Most often, users describe a sense of breathlessness when exhaling against their prescribed air pressure. Pressure relief on the ResMed AirSense 10 allows individuals to adjust air pressure during exhalation for greater comfort during therapy.
The ResMed AirSense 10 has built-in sensors that detect a patient's breathing. As an individual exhales, the CPAP machine responds by reducing the air pressure delivered by a specific amount. When an inhale is detected again, the machine raises the pressure back to the prescribed setting. This is known as EPR, or expiratory pressure relief.
The ResMed AirSense 10 has four EPR settings: 0-3. At 0, pressure relief is turned off. At 3, air pressure is reduced by 3 cm H2O. For example, if a patient's CPAP is set to 10 cm H2O with an EPR of 3, the air pressure during exhale is lowered to 7 cm H2O. Once an inhale is detected, air pressure increases back to 10.
If patients are still having difficulty breathing and EPR is set to the maximum setting, they may require BiPAP therapy.
How To Change The Pressure On A ResMed CPAP Machine
In some cases, the EPR settings are prescribed by a doctor and programmed by a technician. However, patients can turn these EPR settings on or off in the "My Options" menu on their ResMed device. Rotate the dial to select on or off and confirm your EPR setting by pressing down on the dial.
If you are having trouble accessing this feature or would like your EPR number adjusted, do not hesitate to contact our customer care team at 866-414-9700.
What Other Features of the ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet Help with Breathing?
Another comfort feature offered on the ResMed AirSense 10 is ramp. Some new users may have difficulty adjusting to CPAP therapy as they are falling asleep. When ramp is turned on, therapy begins at a lower, default pressure setting of 4 cm H2O. As the patient falls asleep, the air pressure will increase until it reaches the prescribed setting. This allows users to remain compliant with therapy without experiencing any discomfort.
For those who have just been prescribed CPAP therapy and are experiencing discomfort, expiratory pressure relief may help.
If you want to learn more about the ResMed AirSense 10 or EPR, speak to our knowledgeable customer care team at The CPAP Shop. They can help you choose the best CPAP machine for your therapy needs. Call 866-414-9700 or email us at questions@thecpapshop.com.