Questions to Ask Before You Choose Your First CPAP
Choosing a first CPAP is easier when you know what to ask. These six questions help you and your family narrow down the machine and mask.
Six plain questions that make choosing your first CPAP machine easier
When you are new to CPAP, the choices can look the same: white machines, similar names, a list of features you have not heard of. The easiest way through is not to learn everything at once, but to ask a few clear questions about your own nights. Here are the ones we suggest starting with.
1. What has my doctor already decided?
Your doctor decides whether CPAP suits you and sets the pressure. Before you look at models, check what your doctor's notes say. Some notes give a pressure range for an auto-adjusting machine, some mention a mask type, and some say very little. If anything is unclear, ask the doctor before you choose, not after the machine has arrived.
It also helps to know whether your doctor wants to look at data from the machine later. Bring that question to your next appointment so you know what to expect.
2. Do I want simple, or do I want more comfort settings?
All three ResMed machines we offer are auto-adjusting (APAP). The difference is mainly in how much you can tune the comfort.
- ResMed AirStart 10: built-in HumidAir humidifier, plug in and press Start. It suits people who want as few buttons as possible.
- ResMed AirSense 10 AutoSet: integrated humidifier with Climate Control, plus AutoRamp and EPR. It suits people who expect to adjust comfort features with their doctor's guidance.
Neither is right for everyone. Think about the person who will use it. A parent who dislikes gadgets may prefer one button; someone who sleeps in a cold, air-conditioned room may value Climate Control.
3. Will the machine need to travel with me?
If you often sleep away from home, for work trips, weekends back at the kampung or family visits in another state, ask how your therapy will come with you. The ResMed AirMini is a compact travel APAP with waterless humidification (HumidX). It is available to buy only, from RM4,900, and is not offered for rent.
Some people choose a home machine first and add a travel machine later. Others who travel most weeks go straight to the AirMini. Your own travel habits are the deciding factor here.
4. Should I buy or rent?
This depends on how sure you feel. Buying suits people who already know they will use CPAP long term. Renting suits people who want time to get used to therapy before committing, or families helping a parent who is unsure.
- AirStart 10: buy from RM4,500, or rent at RM280 / month.
- AirSense 10 AutoSet: buy from RM6,500, or rent at RM450 / month.
- AirMini: buy only, from RM4,900.
Some of what you pay in rent can go towards buying. We confirm that amount with you on WhatsApp.
5. Which mask type will I wear?
The mask is the part you feel every night, so it deserves its own question. Masks are bought separately, from RM600 for the mask only.
The three main types
- Nasal (such as AirFit N20): covers the nose.
- Nasal pillows (AirFit P30i): small cushions at the nostrils, with less on the face.
- Full face (AirFit F20): covers nose and mouth, often considered by people who breathe through the mouth.
Ask your doctor which type suits your breathing, and think about how you sleep. Side sleepers, people with a beard and people who wear glasses to read in bed may all prefer different shapes.
6. Who will help with setup and the first few nights?
This question is easy to skip, but it matters. If the machine is for an elderly parent, decide who will fill the water tub, clean the mask and check on the first nights. If you live in Petaling Jaya and your parent lives in Johor Bahru or Kota Kinabalu, you can arrange for the machine to be delivered to them directly. Delivery covers every location in Malaysia, and the arrangement is confirmed on WhatsApp.
Once you have your answers, the choice usually narrows down. Our help-me-choose questions turn them into a suggestion, and you can read about each model in our CPAP machines. Ordering is simple: send a WhatsApp message, confirm buy or rent, the model and the rental length, then pay by online banking.
Still have a question you are not sure how to ask? Send it to us as it is.
This article is general guidance, not medical advice. Your doctor decides whether CPAP therapy suits you and sets its pressure and other settings.