ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP Machine Treats Sleep Apnea

Manufactured by ResMed, the AirSense 10 device is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine used to treat sleep apnea. Learn about some of the pros and cons of this treatment option, the auto settings, wireless connection, and whether it is the right model for you.

New Design and Features of ResMed’s AirSense 10 CPAP

The AirSense 10 has a sleek new design, appearing much like a modern alarm clock with its bright and easily readable display. The integrated clear humidifier chamber slides easily into place on the right side. At the opposite end, the filter flap and data card are both accessible. The tubing, either ​heated or standard, connects at the center of the back with a rotating fixture.

One of the biggest changes with the AirSense 10 compared to the S9 model is the wireless capability. There is an internal modem that can wirelessly connect to a local cell tower. This allows data to be shared with your durable medical equipment provider to document compliance. Your physician can also access it to make pressure adjustments remotely. To eliminate electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure, the wireless can be turned off by placing the device in airplane mode (though the display will often prompt you to turn it back on).

The device can be ordered as an AutoSet, allowing the machine to sense whether you continue to experience airway collapse with the ability to respond by increasing the pressure within a preset prescribed range of options. The Expiratory Pressure Relief (EPR) can add comfort by making it easier to breathe out with a briefly lowered pressure.

Humidifier and Heated Tubing Controls Can Be Automated

The heated humidifier and climate line tubing can be manually or automatically controlled. The humidifier allows settings from 1 to 8 when turned on. The heated tubing temperature can be set from 60 to 86 degrees. This may need to be optimized based on your needs, which depend on personal preference as well as your climate and bedroom temperature. The automatic mode takes over these controls and seems to work well.

One of the drawbacks of the AirSense 10 is the design of the water chamber itself. It has a very low profile and seems to contain less water than the S9 model. This may encourage nightly cleaning and refills. It also contributes to unintentional spills out the end if it is overfilled. It also seems to fit less snugly as it is repeatedly taken out and replaced. This may lead to some air leak and noise if it is not replaced properly. If you prefer, an end cap can be placed without humidifier use.

Pros and Cons of the New AirSense 10 CPAP Machine

There are a few other pros to the AirSense 10 CPAP to consider. It is extremely quiet, hardly making any noise with a proper mask seal. The same filters, standard tubing, and masks can be used as were used with the S9 device. The heated tubing differs in design and is not interchangeable. It comes with a nice, quality bag for travel with convenient pockets and compartments. This bag may be slightly small if you use a large full-face mask. There is an option to turn on supply reminders that appear on the display to keep you on schedule for equipment replacement. There is an automatic ramp function that is able to detect the regularity of breathing and turns itself up once it notes a transition toward a sleep-associated pattern.

When comparing it to the prior model, a few drawbacks also come to mind. The power cable differs, so the old one won’t function as an extra if you upgrade your device. The machine itself is slightly wider, especially when comparing just the blower component of the device. This makes it a little less friendly for compact travel. It tips over a little more easily, with the hose lifting up the back and shifting the device forward. When placing the climate line tubing, there isn’t the loud click that was present before, but it should be evident that it is securely in place (especially if you review the temperature settings).

There is a standard version of the AirSense 10 and also a “for Her” model. The latter is slightly more feminine in color, with neutral tones rather than black, and has a leaf pattern imprinted on it. It also functions slightly differently with the ability to increase the pressure in response to subtle changes in the airway, as may more commonly occur in women with sleep apnea.

Considering the Pricing and Insurance Coverage

Finally, it is always important to consider the price of these devices when looking at upgrading. In general, most insurance (including Medicare) will pay 80% to 90% of the cost of the device every five years. Fortunately, ResMed has maintained the pricing as the same as the prior S9 model. Therefore, if you are given the option, you may consider the pros and cons of these past few models and select the one that best fits your needs.

This product was provided by The CPAP Shop, personally reviewed by the author, and donated at the conclusion of the review period.