About to give up!

[lawdognellie]

Okay, I really need help. I can't find a mask that doesn't leak REALLY bad. I've tried the profile lite petite, which leaks at both the mouth and top of the nose; swift, which the smallest pillows are just too big for my nose; and now the HC406, which is supposedly made for small faces, but leaks at the nose and/or mouth and leaves nasty marks on my face even with the snuggly things on.

I put in my facial measurements and the only masks to fit my face were either full face (which I CAN'T wear b/c I'm extremely claustrophobic to the point where I can’t even wear a jacket without feeling smothered), ComfortCurve Nasal Interface or Simplicity Mask.

Can anyone tell me if either the ComfortCurve and/or Simplicity can handle high pressure (16) and side sleeping? Or is it just hopeless?

[kteague]

Hi. I'm sure some folks knowledgeable about the different masks will weigh in soon. If your face is indeed quite petite and you keep finding the masks are too large, you might want to try on a size large pediatric mask. Just a thought.
Kathy

[MaskedMechanic]

Hi lawdognellie,

There have been some successful applications of Respironics Soft Series Masks for patients with petite faces. The size small is a full size smaller than a HC406.

You need to be "professionally fitted". (Yes, you DME lovers, there are some that have such skills, but I admit that they are very hard to find.) Perhaps the forum can find one within reach of you. Generally, where do you live?

[tomjax]

I vote for the Breeze.


Works great for moi and many others.

Some seem to have a problem aadjusting it, but it can be done easily with practice.
Exerts virtually no pressure on face and DOES NOT rest on lips.
Can sleep on side or even stomach.
Totally quiet

_________________

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

[CPAPSaves]

Have you tried the Mirage Ultra II? I only run 12 but it works great and leaks very little. I also have a beard and mustache and I found it the best, I wear a size small. The other trick is not to put the mirage on to tight or it makes it leak. It needs to be loose to seal well. I tried quite a few others before I found the Mirage Ultra II. I too do not like the full face masks.

Hope this helps.

[kurtchan]

Can't speak to being able to handle the high pressure, but I love my Comfort Curve mask and use it all the time. I've heard from other users that one of the difficulties with the mask is that is IS made for people with smaller faces and features, so it might just work for you.

I would agree with the suggestion that, if possible, you be professionally fitted for your new mask by your DME or sleep doctor. Once you've got the right mask, things should improve immensely.

Good luck!

Kurtchan

[ldemmery]

I use the HC406, try adjusting the mask while you're lying down, that sometimes helps. You may be able to let them get looser. I did and it works for me now, adjust the lower ones first, then the top ones.

Lynne (in Ottawa)

[wabmorgan]

Active get the vote. IT WON'T LEAK!!!!!!!! At least it never has on me and I wear the mask lose. It is a little large, which can cause claustrophobia but if you get use to it... it is actually the most comfortable mask I have found yet.