Re: For those who use a CPAP or BiPAP Machine....

DottieBlue · ‎03-11-2010

@151949 wrote:
What is an "equipment technician"? I had a Respiratory therapist one time - he brought the machine and mask - spent about 3 min explaining it - left a pamphlet with directions and left. No one else has ever come back. I am unfortunately stuck using Lincare as they are the only company available in my area and they provide horrid customer service. They actually charge 4 times a year to my ins co for a visit for "equipment check" and they get paid hundreds of dollars for it , but they have never come here- I called the ins co and they said they know but there is no one else available in my area. If I want my machine checked I have to take it to the Lincare offices around 25 miles away, only to be told mine is an old model and should be replaced and they don't check ones as old as mine.

"Equipment technician" -- I was referring to the person I go to at the Durable Medical Equipment (DME) company that provides my equipment. I go to her office, she doesn't come to my home. She has been extremely helpful, she's been my "coach" who has answered my questions and encouraged and supported me when I was ready to give up. I saw her once a month for the first 6 months, now it is every two months. And I can call her in-between visits if I need to.

Your situation sounds awful. Insurance companies need to wake up and get on the ball for their patients when it comes to this issue.

According to my Equipment Technician, a rule of thumb for machine replacement is 3 - 5 years. If your machine is this old, lobby your insurance company to provide you a new one.

If it has been some time since you had your last sleep study, it may be worth the time and trouble to have another one done, get a new prescription and then look elsewhere for a DME company that will give you good service, perhaps even if you have to drive to another town for the initial visit and a few "coaching" sessions. Once you are up and running, you could make contact by phone or email. And they can send your replacement supplies in the mail. Also, there are DME companies online that may be more helpful than your local one.

I think it is terrible how paients like you are being treated by some DME companies and insurance companies. Perhaps do some research online and call another DME company and maybe they can offer some advice or help.

I hope things work out better for you.

Take care.

DottieBlue · ‎03-11-2010

@jessa wrote:
Thank you so much DeltaOne. I have been wearing a full face mask for years but latlely it has become so uncomfortable . I get up numerous times at night to fix it. I am going to check out that website.

Do you get your mask and headgear replaced regularly? They do stretch/wear out and that can also contribute to your discomfort. I get mine replaced every 6 months. Medicare and my secondary insurance pays for it.

These liners are the answer for me!

......because, it sure defeats the purpose of getting a good night's sleep by using a CPAP or BiPap machine if the MASK wakes you up several times a night!

Wishing you a good night's sleep soon!

151949 · ‎03-09-2010

If I don't pull the straps on the headgear so tight it hurts my face my mask leaks. It doesn't really bother me at all - I'm asleep but it drives my DH crazy and he gets up and goes & sleeps on the sofa in his den. So I ordered the 6 piece sample set to see if this works.

I saw online the company that makes them is for sale.

DottieBlue · ‎03-11-2010

@151949 wrote:
If I don't pull the straps on the headgear so tight it hurts my face my mask leaks. It doesn't really bother me at all - I'm asleep but it drives my DH crazy and he gets up and goes & sleeps on the sofa in his den. So I ordered the 6 piece sample set to see if this works.
I saw online the company that makes them is for sale.

Please post again after you've tried them out, I'd like to know if they work for you.

I didn't notice that the company is for sale...I sure hope someone keeps making these liners because it makes my mask work so much better.

Marcail0825 · ‎10-16-2014

@DottieBlue wrote:
I was diagnosed 8 months ago and prescribed a BiPap machine. My levels are very high: 21/17. Because of that, I was having a heck of a time keeping my full face mask from slipping and leaking.

Last month, I discovered a product that feels like a miracle to me. I went to a website called Remzzz dot com and they offer a face mask liner to help eliminate this problem.

IT WORKS!!! I ordered some and have been using them for 5 weeks now. They keep my mask in place and have eliminated 99.9% of my air leaks!

I'd like to suggest that those who find their masks uncomfortable, go to their website: Remzzz dot com and read about them. They've only been on the market a few years. (And BTW. I don't own any stock or have any association with this company other than as a customer.)

Such a simple solution to what was such a big problem for me! They are expensive, but for me they are so worth it that I budget for them by cutting back on other purchases. You can buy a 6-liner sample pack to try.

My DME technician hasn't told me about this product, so at my next appointment I am going to take one with me to show her.

Just wanted to post this information in case it could help others as much as this product has helped me.

Edited: Ooops! The correct website address is: Remzzzs dot com
Need to add an "s" at the end of Remzzzs
Sorry!