Does resmed airsense 10 automatically adjust pressure

Every person with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) experiences different levels of air obstruction. That's why it's important to have your CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) device set to the right level for your specific needs.

The best way to determine this is with an overnight CPAP titration study where a sleep physician monitors your sleep and adjusts the pressure just enough to prevent air obstructions. Their goal is to find the lowest pressure setting needed. This will ensure you breathe as comfortably as you can throughout the night with a few apneas and hypopneas as possible.

What do CPAP pressure settings mean?

Your CPAP device blows air into your airways to ensure your breathing is not obstructed during sleep. The air pressure delivered is determined by the pressure setting on your device. For most people, this CPAP pressure setting is set between 6 and 14 cmH2O, with an average of 10 cmH2O. Your sleep physician will help you determine what level is right for you.

You may think the pressure level is related to the severity of your sleep apnea, but that's not always the case. People with mild OSA may need high pressure and vice versa. The pressure you need to clear your airways depends more on their anatomy and the nature of your obstructions.

Is my CPAP pressure too high?

You may feel your CPAP pressure is too high if you experience discomfort in your mouth, nose or airways. This, however, does not necessarily mean the setting is not right for you. You may just need some time or advice to adjust to therapy.

If, after a while, you still find your therapy uncomfortable, having high air pressure may be counter-productive to your therapy. Some people will simply not be able to tolerate high pressures – that's why the settings are adjustable. If you find your pressure too high, it's essential to ask your sleep physician to adjust it for you.

Having the air pressure too high can also cause other side effects beyond discomfort, such as aerophagia, which is when sufferers "swallow" air into their stomachs. This can result in bloating, gas, discomfort, and excessive belching.

Is my CPAP pressure too low?

As previously mentioned, the ideal CPAP pressure is the lowest pressure needed to treat your sleep apnea. But if it is set too low, you will not have enough air to clear your airways, leading to apneas and hypopneas during sleep.

Those who experience five or more apnea or hypopnea events per hour will typically require an increase in their CPAP pressure setting. And when you’re not getting the therapy you need, you'll continue to experience the symptoms of sleep apnea too, so do go get it checked out!

Should you change CPAP pressure yourself?

If you believe your CPAP pressure needs to be adjusted, you should go and see your doctor or sleep physician to discuss your CPAP device settings. Your sleep physician will be able to look at your therapy data to help you determine the settings that are right for you. Changing the CPAP device setting yourself may result in adjusting the pressure too far in either direction, which could make your condition worse.

Consider an AutoSet Device

Some people may benefit from using an Automatic PAP device or APAP, which, unlike a regular CPAP device, can automatically adjust the air pressure as needed to unblock any obstructions that occur. With an AutoSet device, you can rest easy knowing that the pressure will rise and fall as needed to keep the airway open.

If you're struggling with your sleep therapy, even after adjusting your pressure settings, don't give up on sleep therapy just yet. An APAP machine could be the answer.

Who is ResMed?

ResMed is a global leader in sleep technology that has its origins right here in Australia. Our goal is to provide people with the means to awaken their best and enjoy healthier lives by promoting good sleep habits and creating awareness for sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.

Tools and resources

Sign up for the latest news & offers

Stay up to date with the latest products, news, offers and tips for Sleep Apnea, Snoring, Insomnia and overall good Sleep Health.

How This CPAP Machine Performs

When choosing a CPAP machine, it’s worthwhile to consider its performance in a range of different categories and determine which characteristics are most important to you. 

Is This CPAP Machine Easy to Use?

The AirSense 10 has a color LCD display that adjusts the brightness level automatically, making it easy to see without getting out of bed. Settings and menus are controlled using a large dial and two buttons located next to the display screen. 

How Compatible Is This Machine With Other PAP Products?

While a variety of ResMed masks can be used with the AirSense 10, the machine is also compatible with CPAP masks from other manufacturers. The AirSense 10 can use either 15- or 19-millimeter air tubing, though users interested in heated tubing should choose one manufactured by ResMed.

What Do the Pressure Settings Look Like?

The AirSense 10 has a pressure range of 4 to 20 centimeters of water pressure (cm H2O). The average pressure setting for people with obstructive sleep apnea is around 10 cm H2O, so the AirSense 10 should meet the needs of most CPAP users. 

Is This CPAP Machine Noisy?

With a noise level of approximately 27 decibels, the AirSense 10 is whisper-quiet. The average CPAP machine has a noise level of 30 decibels, or about as loud as rustling leaves. 

Are There Air Temperature and Humidity Controls?

Although the AirSense 10 does not provide temperature controls for the heated humidifier, it does offer eight humidity settings. People who use ResMed’s heated air tubing can also adjust the tubing’s temperature between 60 and 86 degrees Fahrenheit. 

What Do Maintenance and Care Look Like?

In addition to changing the humidifier water daily, ResMed recommends thoroughly cleaning the AirSense 10’s tubing and water tank once a week by hand using warm water and mild detergent. The company suggests replacing the air filter and tubing at least every six months. CPAP users should follow manufacturer recommendations for cleaning their mask and other CPAP accessories.

How Portable Is This CPAP Machine?

While not as streamlined or lightweight as travel CPAP models, the AirSense 10 is relatively portable compared with other machines with an integrated humidifier. The machine itself is approximately 10 inches long, and the combined weight of the machine and power unit is under 5 pounds. 

Does CPAP adjust pressure automatically?

How do I know if my CPAP pressure needs adjusting?

What is AutoSet mode ResMed AirSense 10?