Leak with dreamwear nasal mask

[Adnil]

I feel desperate. I put mask on and every thing is snug then without moving it will suddenly spring a leak around my nose. Of course, when I roll onto my side it is worse. I lose a lot of sleep trying to press the pillow so it won’t leak. I wonder if I’m benefitting at all from the CPAP? My original kit only had a medium nasal pillow. I am 71 years old and wonder if the aging loose skin might contribute to the problem?

[PA051]

Hi. I'm no expert and have only been on cpap for a month, but I do use the same cushion. I get leaks until I get it just right, then no problem. I can think of 3 things that could be the problem... one is how old is the cushion? Also, have you tried the small size? You can get them inexpensively on ebay! Last one is try tightening the velcro on the headgear. That worked for me.

[Hopeful50]

You might possibly have the mask fastened too tightly. It shouldn't fee snug.

If you feel small leaks around the edge, don't push it toward your face. Instead, pull it slightly AWAY from your face to allow the cushion to reinflate. It must be inflated in order to seal, and when it's fastened too tightly, it can't inflate.

Another thing to try is when you're going to turn over (assuming you're awake), apply slight pressure to hold the cushion against your upper lip just until your head is settled again on the pillow.

For my own Dreamwear, when I start getting leaks is when I know it's time to replace the cushion. Medicare allows two new cushions per month, but I find mine do just fine for at least 2-3 months, if not more.

Good luck!

[clenchingtobreathe]

Everyone has given you great suggestions. Don't pull the headgear too tight but try pulling it a bit further down on the back of your head. I have shorter hair, so I always pull the hair on the back of my head above the head strap and that helps keep it in place. I am also a side sleeper....and it just takes some getting used to it. There are several videos on YouTube on how to size the DW Nasal Cushion if that might help you know if you need a smaller cushion. It just takes some tweaking and try not to worry too much about small leaks.
You didn't mention whether you are new to CPAP....but I am 69 and only weigh 112 lbs, so it's not your face or wrinkles!