New VPAP user mask leaks at certain times

Hello -
I've been using a ResMed VPAP for a week now. The main issue I'm having is maintaining a good mask seal. I make sure the mask (Mirage Quattro) has a good seal at first, with the straps and forehead piece snug but not tight. Then at about 1AM and again at 4AM the mask begins to leak. I have tried restarting the machine (to use the 20 min ramp) and also tightening the straps and the forehead knob. They sort of fix the problem but I wake up with a sore nose and a red line across the bridge of my nose and where the top of the nose cup rests on my face. What I'm looking for is advice to stops the leaks so I can get a full night's sleep.

I've ordered a trial set of Remmz. I've also asked my DME is I could try a Sleepweaver Anew.
Is there anything else I can try?
Thanks.

Mike

Alaskamike wrote:Hello -
I've been using a ResMed VPAP for a week now. The main issue I'm having is maintaining a good mask seal. I make sure the mask (Mirage Quattro) has a good seal at first, with the straps and forehead piece snug but not tight. Then at about 1AM and again at 4AM the mask begins to leak. I have tried restarting the machine (to use the 20 min ramp) and also tightening the straps and the forehead knob. They sort of fix the problem but I wake up with a sore nose and a red line across the bridge of my nose and where the top of the nose cup rests on my face. What I'm looking for is advice to stops the leaks so I can get a full night's sleep.

I've ordered a trial set of Remmz. I've also asked my DME is I could try a Sleepweaver Anew.
Is there anything else I can try?
Thanks.

Mike

We have no idea what pressures you're dealing with. Maybe you're adjusting the knob in the wrong direction. Maybe the problem is your bed pillow (your head is sinking too far and it's pushing the mask out of alignment). Maybe you need to eliminate the Ramp. Maybe, if you haven't adjusted the mask to the highest pressure your machine is going to, that could be a problem.

Too many unknowns to offer much in the way of suggestions.


Den

.

We have no idea what pressures you're dealing with. Maybe you're adjusting the knob in the wrong direction. Maybe the problem is your bed pillow (your head is sinking too far and it's pushing the mask out of alignment). Maybe you need to eliminate the Ramp. Maybe, if you haven't adjusted the mask to the highest pressure your machine is going to, that could be a problem.

Thanks for the feedback. The VPAP is set to go up to 13. When I adjust the knob on the mask I usually end up turning it both directions to make sure that it's going the direction that I want it to. I usually start with it all the way out (24). I tighten the chin straps to stop leaks around my mouth then I adjust the knob until the mask doesn't leak from the top. I use a buckwheat style pillow and try to keep it fairly flat, unless I'm on my side then I'll use it to level out my head.

As far as pressure, I've put the VPAP in mask test mode and gotten the mask to seal without leaks. I thought that test mode runs the VPAP at its highest programmed setting?

Thanks again.

Mike

I have been using the Quattro for over 5 years. The key to a good seal is...(1)Make sure you have the correct size. If the mask is too big it's impossible to seal properly. (2) Do not over tighten the mask...the air pressure should make the silicone seal float on your face. (3) Thoroughly clean your face to get any oils off before putting on the mask.((4) Throughout the night your facial muscles relax and the mask may start to leak (face farts). Gently pull the mask away from your face and let it re-seal.....I also use the buckwheat pillow. It's what helps make the Quattro work for me. Good Luck.

if you are using the Quattro or any FFM, then you really should read this

https://maskarrayed.wordpress.com/tamin ... e-quattro/

I'd be lost if it hadn't been pointed out to me more than 2 years ago.

I have always had problems with full face masks leaking, including the Anew.
I do best with a nasal mask like the Elan or the Wisp.
Do you have facial hair? That makes getting a good seal even more difficult.

Finding a mask that fits and does not leak and feels comfortable is the biggest challenge in XPAP therapy. We have all been through it. It has a bad habit of coming back to plague us from time to time. A favorite mask will become horrible as some other detail changes.

Well, I made it through the night last night without a leak.
I kept the straps tight (from where I ended the previous night). I don't think there was much of an air cushion, but it worked.
I think I may not have the right size mask, so I have an appointment next week to check the fit.
Thanks for all of the advice!

Mike