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Introduction

How bi-level treatment works

Obstructive sleep apnea or OSA occurs when the tongue and soft palate relax during sleep, blocking the airway and cutting off the brain’s supply of oxygen. To treat OSA, nasal CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) was developed in 1981 by Dr Colin Sullivan in Australia.

In CPAP treatment, a flow generator unit provides air through a nose mask at a slightly raised pressure which keeps the airway open. The level of air pressure varies according to individual needs.

Conventional CPAP treatment is carried out using a constant air pressure which can sometimes make breathing out uncomfortable. Bi-level treatment is an extension to conventional CPAP designed to overcome this. Treatment is carried out in a similar way, except that the flow generator delivers two pressures – a higher pressure when you breathe in and a lower pressure when you breathe out.

Your physician will prescribe two pressures: an inspiratory or IPAP pressure for when you breath in; and an expiratory or EPAP pressure for when you breathe out. These pressures are determined during a sleep study and set by the sleep clinic staff or your equipment supplier.

The SULLVAN® Comfort™ operates in a spontaneous mode, where it delivers your IPAP and EPAP pressures in response to your breathing pattern. For example, during your inspiratory breath the unit delivers your IPAP pressure; then your expiratory breath triggers the unit to switch to your EPAP pressure.

This spontaneous mode of operation is aided by the set IPAP maximum time. This is the maximum length of time, within each breath period, that the flow generator will deliver your IPAP pressure before it switches to your EPAP pressure. Therefore, if your expiratory breath should fail to trigger the unit to switch to your EPAP pressure, the unit will switch automatically when your IPAP maximum time is exceeded.

The IPAP maximum time is factory set. For some patients only, the physician will prescribe an individual IPAP maximum time to be set by the sleep clinic staff or equipment supplier.

If you feel that you are no longer getting relief from your symptoms of sleep apnea, consult your physician immediately for advice.

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ResMed Comfort manual Introduction, How bi-level treatment works
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Comfort specifications

ResMed Comfort is a premier choice for individuals seeking an effective solution for their sleep apnea and other respiratory issues. The device is designed to enhance the user experience while providing substantial therapeutic benefits. At the core of ResMed Comfort is its innovative technology that focuses on improving airflow and reducing disturbances during sleep.

One of the standout features of the ResMed Comfort is its Adaptive Airflow technology. This system continuously monitors the user’s breathing patterns and makes real-time adjustments to deliver the optimal level of pressure. This responsiveness ensures that patients receive the precise amount of air pressure they need, minimizing the risk of mask leaks and discomfort.

The device is equipped with an integrated humidifier that adds moisture to the airflow. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who suffer from dry mouth or nasal passages, making therapy more comfortable and less invasive. Moreover, the humidifier is designed to be easy to fill and clean, promoting hygiene and user convenience.

The ResMed Comfort also focuses on noise reduction, making it one of the quietest devices in its category. Patients can enjoy a restful night's sleep without the distraction of loud machinery or airflow sounds. This characteristic is especially crucial for couples, where one partner’s therapy should not disrupt the other’s rest.

Customization is another hallmark of the ResMed Comfort. Users can adjust various settings, including ramp time, which allows them to gradually acclimate to the prescribed pressure. The device's user-friendly interface and display make navigating these settings a breeze, ensuring that patients can tailor their therapy to their specific needs with ease.

ResMed Comfort also boasts advanced connectivity features, allowing users to track their therapy progress through mobile apps or online platforms. This connectivity fosters better engagement, enabling users to communicate effectively with their healthcare providers and make informed adjustments when necessary.

In conclusion, ResMed Comfort combines cutting-edge technology, user-centric design, and exceptional therapeutic benefits, making it an ideal choice for those seeking relief from sleep apnea and other respiratory challenges. Its innovative features and ease of use epitomize ResMed’s commitment to improving patient outcomes and enhancing the overall experience of sleep therapy.
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