Fixed Pressure Machines

Fixed pressure CPAP machines deliver a constant pressure of air in order to maintain an unobstructed airway while a patient sleeps. To determine the optimal fixed CPAP pressure, patients will generally either undergo a CPAP titration sleep study at a sleep laboratory or undergo an Automatic CPAP trial for a month, under the supervision of a Sleep Specialist, to determine the optimal pressure requirement. Once this is done, patients under the care of a Sleep Specialist, will usually receive a prescription detailing their machine settings.

Speak with your doctor first to obtain a proper diagnosis and before commencing CPAP treatment. ALWAYS READ THE LABEL AND FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. If symptoms persist talk to your healthcare professional.

To improve patient comfort, fixed pressure CPAP machines have a ramp feature, which maintains the pressure at a lower level for a set amount of time, before it rises to the optimal treatment pressure.

There are many different brands of fixed pressure CPAP machines. The most popular, commonly-used brands include ResMed Australia, Philips Respironics and Fisher & Paykel.

Other key features of the more premium fixed pressure CPAP machines include in-built humidification, heated tubing to reduce condensation (i.e. water dripping inside the tubing and mask during Winter), remote compliance monitoring and app support to allow for self-monitoring.

It is important for fixed pressure CPAP machine users to routinely check the optimisation of their treatment pressure, as this can change over time, for a variety of reasons including age, weight, medications, illness and sleep apnoea severity. When considering a purchase of a fixed pressure CPAP machine, it is often worthwhile comparing it with an Automatic CPAP Machine. The Automatic CPAP machine’s constant and automatic pressure adjustments help ensure patients get the most from their treatment. Optimal therapy is achieved by automatically providing the patient with the minimum pressure required to maintain an unobstructed airway on a breath-by-breath basis.