.

Roger... · Post by **Roger...** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 11:03 am

Getting to try a mask before hand is a really great idea!

I’m finding that my full-face mask doesn’t fit my shape of face and the cost of buying replacement chambers for a mask can be half the cost of a mask and the next size may not work any better.

Because I’m not having good luck with a full-face mask, I’m thinking that mask should be purchased locally and not through an online source unless you know the mask model will work already. To not do this places the mask purchase as an expensive gamble that probably doesn’t work out well in a large number of cases.

I would like to tip my hat to NeverSleeps for the generosity of allowing others to avoid this expense.

ozij · Post by **ozij** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 10:42 pm

In case it crosses your mind, masks can be sterilized. Sleep labs do it all the time.

True, the Hans Rudolph masks can be sterilized.

Some masks, however cannot. In those cases, the mask's manual will say something like "not approved for multiple patient use".

The Hans Rudolph can be.
The following is from the Hans Rudolpph site:
http://www.rudolphkc.com/detail.php?pid=4

7600 series VIP™ Adult Oro-Nasal (Full Face) CPAP/Bilevel Ventilation Mask with Anti-Asphyxia Valve (AAV) Swivel Port and Headgear. Includes Silicone rubber face mask and Polysulfone Swivel Port and AAV. Cold Chemical, Steam Autoclave, Pasteurization, and Dishwasher safe. Multi-Patient, Multi-Use reusable. Five sizes available.

(my emphasis)

Roger,
The maintenanc PDF on that site says: c. Patients with facial hair, especially beards, may experience mask leakage even though all fitting instructions are followed. If mask leakage is excessive, the beard or
other facial hair may need to be shaved to assure mask effectiveness.

Thought you might want to know that....
O.

_________________

CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): CPAP

Severeena · Post by **Severeena** » Sat Dec 24, 2005 10:58 am

Neversleeps, is it the mask giving you fits or the head gear?

I have made my own head gear.

Neversleeps, PM me with your name and address and after Christmas I will send the shipping fee. I have an Idea for my husband.

elliejose · Post by **elliejose** » Sat Dec 24, 2005 8:50 pm

Severeena,

If it doesn't work out for you, I would like to be next in line.

BTW, MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!!!!

Severeena · Post by **Severeena** » Sat Dec 24, 2005 9:01 pm

elliejose, I use the Hans Rudolph and I have the Petite, and I think the Extra-Small would fit me better.

elliejose · Post by **elliejose** » Mon Dec 26, 2005 5:06 pm

According to the calipers, I am small (but almost on line for extra small) so don't know if it would fit me or not anyway, just thought I'd give it a try and see if I couldn't use it. I am not having much luck with the Ultra Mirage ff mask.

Anyway keep me in mind if you can't use it.

Thanks

Roger... · Post by **Roger...** » Mon Dec 26, 2005 5:35 pm

When I spoke to KC Rudolph at HR, I believe he mentioned their mask were just a little larger than they expected, but if your caliper reading was moving towards the next size, then to get the next larger size. This seemed contradictory, but it reflects the notes I took from the phone call. He also mentioned the headgear ran smaller than expected so those should be selected for a larger size. Now all of this could be just confusion because he wasn't as clear as I had hope. For certain before I would spend any money, I would certainly get on the phone with them and review everything before clicking purchase.

sapphireskye · Post by **sapphireskye** » Mon Dec 26, 2005 5:59 pm

Well, I am hoping that the Fischer Paykal mask the dme is supposed to order will work, but I am gonna give it a last ditch effort tomorrow to try to get ahold of them to see if they would consider the Hans Rudolph. If not, I will have to wait till we have the money to order one. I still have to measure my face, but I highly doubt it will be a small. I know everyone has problems with stuff sometimes at first. I got so much I am concerned about, I am not doing the best with complying cuz of the problems from the Ultra Mirage FF mask as well. Boy I wish I could tolerate just a nasal mask (Won't ever happen nope)
Chelle

Roger... · Post by **Roger...** » Mon Dec 26, 2005 6:50 pm

If your DME will allow you to try the mask there before your not able to give it back, then I would at least try the Fischer Paykal. Especially since HR is having a transition with their mask from using a net hardness to the more conventional adjustable straps.

Another reason is that I've seen more people say they like the Fischer Paykal than the HR. I've also heard from CPAPTALK that the Ultra Mirage works out better than the Fischer Paykal, but I've not been able to get my Ultra Mirage to work well enough to keep the massice leaks from happening during the night. I start out well, but when I start to toss and turn, the leaks become massive and the treatment is compromised. If I were to buy the HR new, I would not buy it with the Net-style headgear because it isn't adjustable to different noggin sizes.

Severeena · Post by **Severeena** » Mon Dec 26, 2005 8:52 pm

I have a small Hans Rudolph.

I can clean it with a vinegar solution to sterilize it if some one wants to give it a try.

You will need to order head gear since I tore mine apart.