Managing sleep apnea can already be a challenge — but with the right CPAP device, you can prevent nighttime breathing troubles and enjoy higher-quality sleep.
While most CPAP devices make it easy to manage your condition while at home, traveling can present an entirely different challenge. Taking a standard CPAP device on the go isn’t always easy, but you can’t afford to simply leave your equipment behind.
Thankfully, the new Z2 CPAP from Breas solves these concerns with a lightweight portable design that is perfectly suited to go wherever your travels take you.
Who Benefits the Most From the Z2 CPAP?
While the Z2 CPAP is versatile enough to be used for everyday sleep apnea treatment, those who will benefit the most from this innovative device are those who travel on a frequent basis.
Chances are good that you fall into this group. In 2018 alone, it is estimated that Americans took over 471 million business trips in addition to a whopping 1.82 billion trips for leisure — and these numbers only account for domestic travel.
Even when these trips only last a few days, many business travelers leave home on a monthly basis for work-related events. If you travel often enough that you regularly rack up and redeem your airline frequent flyer miles, you have undoubtedly already experienced the hassles that come when trying to bring a standard CPAP device on a flight.
Pocket Size
For most CPAP users, traveling with a CPAP device means giving up significant carry-on or personal item space. Though traveling cases are available for many devices, their bulkier size can make it difficult to find room in your suitcase. If you need to use your device because you are taking a red eye flight, setting everything up can prove even harder — especially with the cramped quarters on most flights.
This is the first point of order that is addressed by Breas’ Z2 CPAP devices. The Z2 weighs a mere 10.4 ounces, and its dimensions are 6.48” x 3.30” x 2.02”. Though it has much greater depth than the average smartphone, these height and width dimensions are actually quite similar to a larger smartphone like the iPhone XS Max or the Google Nexus 6P.
In other words, the Z2 CPAP can rest in the palm of your hand.
Not only does this leave more space in your carry-on luggage, it also ensures that you won’t disturb your fellow passengers should you need to use your CPAP device during your flight. Instead, you can hold the Z2 CPAP in your hand or attach it to a lanyard as you enjoy a restful night’s sleep.
Quality CPAP Care
Of course, a size that is well-suited for travel isn’t the only thing that makes the Z2 CPAP a great option for your treatment. The Z2 CPAP includes many of the features first introduced in the Z1 Portable CPAP device, while also improving on these design elements in noteworthy ways.
While the Z1 was already relatively quiet with an average sound level of less than 26 dBA, testing of the Z2 CPAP has found its air intake processes to be 29 percent quieter than the original model. The inclusion of Qtube — an in-line CPAP muffler — further reduces noise at the mask.
Another attribute that improves the functionality of the Z2 CPAP is that no special masks are required for this device. As long as your preferred CPAP mask does not require a proprietary connection, it can be used with the Z2. Be aware that many ResMed masks (such as the AirFit and AirTouch) require proprietary connections.
Another great feature of the Z2 CPAP that is carried over from the Z1 is the implementation of the Z-Breathe algorithm. This helpful programming feature is designed to directly address one of the most common complaints of CPAP users: trouble exhaling because of the pressure supplied from their device.
Z-Breathe addresses this issue by using an advanced algorithm to learn about your individual breathing patterns. This comfort feature allows the Z2 CPAP to reduce pressure during exhalation while also minimizing pressure swings to ensure more comfortable performance. Three settings are available to help users further adapt the device to their needs.
Another comfort-enhancing element is the device’s Ramp feature, which allows users to gradually adjust to their prescribed CPAP treatment pressure. Ramp time can be set from zero to 45 minutes, allowing users to gradually build up to the needed pressure so they can fall asleep more easily.
Finally, the Z2 CPAP uses a Heat Moisture Exchanger (HME) to provide water-free humidity. This innovative cartridge is inserted between the mask and tubing so that it can capture the moisture that is released when you exhale. The moisture is then released during inhalation for more comfortable humidity levels during breathing. This humidifier-less option does not require extra water — a great benefit when visiting an area where clean, distilled water is not readily available.
Ease of Use
Of course, all these features wouldn’t be that helpful if the Z2 CPAP was difficult to use. Thankfully, the device utilizes a backlit LCD screen that displays the user’s treatment settings, while large soft touch buttons allow for simplified programming and settings checks.
The Z2 CPAP also allows for easy analysis of your sleep data. Those who use the standard Z2 CPAP can download their sleep data to a Windows computer using a USB drive. The data can then be accessed using Breas’ free DataViewer software. If you have a Z2 Auto, data can be transferred to Breas’ Nitelog app for iOS and Android devices. This ensures that users and their care providers will always be in the loop regarding treatment status.
The Z2 CPAP also incorporates an Auto Stop feature, which will automatically shut off treatment when the user’s CPAP mask is removed. The Z2 Auto has an additional Auto Start option that activates therapy when the patient first starts breathing into the mask for even greater convenience. It also has the ability to auto adjust therapy pressure (the standard Z2 CPAP provides fixed pressure therapy).
Travel-Friendly Features
A convenient size isn’t the only way that the Z2 CPAP creates a travel-friendly experience. For starters, the Z2 is compatible with the PowerShell integrated battery that was first introduced for the Breas Z1.
The PowerShell is ideally suited for when your travels will take you off the grid and you won’t have access to a reliable electric supply. PowerShell Battery Modules can provide power for up to 8.5 hours of treatment. Better still, the PowerShell’s battery platform allows users to easily swap out individual lithium-ion batteries, which can be recharged with a standard electrical connection.
For example, if you were going on a three day camping trip, you could bring your PowerShell and three Battery Modules to ensure you wouldn’t miss a single night of treatment. The PowerShell is also approved for in-flight use by the FAA, perfect for flights where an in-seat power outlet isn’t available. Naturally, the Z2 CPAP itself is also FAA compliant as long as the Bluetooth features have been turned off.
The PowerShell essentially creates a “cradle” that houses the Z2 (or the Z1) while in use. At 17 ounces, it won’t add significantly to the weight of your backpack, either.
When staying at a hotel in a foreign country, however, you won’t necessarily have to rely on the PowerShell. The Z2 CPAP was designed with international travelers in mind. It uses an auto adjusting voltage power supply, allowing it to draw the right amount of power regardless of whether an outlet delivers 100 volts or 240. As long as you have a plug adaptor for the region you’re visiting, you will be able to plug in your device for a reliable night of treatment.
Preparing For Your Travels
While the Z2 CPAP offers many conveniences to ensure you won’t miss therapy while you travel, there are still a few things travelers should be aware of. For one, be mindful of the device’s limitations. The Z2 CPAP can operate in a pressure range of 4 to 20 cm H2O. Altitude compensation (not counting properly pressurized airline travel) is available at elevations ranging from sea level to 8,000 feet. Finally, the recommended non-condensing operating humidity range is 10 to 80 percent.
While this covers the usage needs of most travelers, it still pays to be mindful of those situations when the Z2 CPAP may not be able to provide peak performance. You won’t be able to take it with you if you’re attempting to scale Mount Everest!
While the Z2 CPAP has been approved by the FAA for domestic flights and for international flights with a departure or arrival destination within the United States, requirements for CPAP devices can vary from airline to airline.
To avoid trouble with your flight, it is always a good idea to contact your airline in advance. This way, you will learn of any potential requirements the airline has in place for allowing a CPAP device on board, such as a letter of medical necessity or a valid prescription signed by your doctor.
Is the Z2 CPAP Right For You?
The Z2 CPAP represents an exciting development for those with sleep apnea who travel often and don’t want to miss out on their therapy. With its user-friendly features, convenient travel size, and upgrades from the original Z1 device, the Z2 CPAP will make it easier than ever before to get sleep apnea therapy on the go.
Sales of the Z2 CPAP begin on March 26, but pre-sale orders are now available. Right out of the box, ordering a Z2 CPAP will get you the device itself, as well as the power supply and cord, a USB cable, a custom tube adapter and slim style tubes, an extra filter, and a free Qtube inline muffler and Heat Moisture Exchanger.
All in all, the Z2 CPAP represents a great deal, whether you need it for everyday use or want to use it for your frequent travels.
Here at No Insurance Medical Supplies, we are dedicated to helping you get the right CPAP devices at a price you can afford. If you are interested in the Z2 CPAP, contact us today and we will help you on your journey to getting the sleep apnea treatment you need anytime, anywhere.