Time to spend $$ on a new FF mask...and pressure went way up

[mellabella]

After finally getting a new sleep doctor (and therefore a re-titration that the original one refused to authorize for the previous 2 years since the original titration)--my pressure has been adjusted from 7 to 13!

I have to pay for all my CPAP equipment out of pocket since my insurer doesn't cover UARS, and money is tight, so I've been using the same Mirage FF mask for the past two years (nasal is absolutely not an option for me due to an inability to keep my mouth all the way shut even with chinstraps, taping, etc. due to a jaw issue....I did sink $150 into a nasal pillow mask before figuring this out).

At this point, do I replace the "soft" parts of the Mirage FF II (i.e. cushion, head rest, etc) that are degrading, do I start all over with a Quattro (used in lab for titration), or is there a better option out there for mouthbreathers (different manufacturer or hybrid styles) I should give a try?

The Mirage FF has only ever been adequate--I experienced sores, leaks, etc., especially in the "breaking in" period. If I'm going to spend the money anyway, I'd be happy to try something different.

Note: I am also a side sleeper. I can't afford to use a DME as a middleman so I buy online (don't know if there are other retail outlets where one can try the masks on in person).

Thanks so much for your help!

[ratkinson]

I have had better luck (less leaks) side sleeping with my hybrid than I did with my UMFF. How did the Quattro preform for you in the lab? I'd say if you have tried the two FF go with the one that you felt fit you the best. (with money being an issue) Then troll the mask roulette thread for a deal or a test drive of a hybrid. If you put the word out you are looking, your bound to get some responses. I've noticed the hybrids aren't for everyone so they do pop up for trade fairly regularly. I personally love mine.

Richard

[mellabella]

I have had better luck (less leaks) side sleeping with my hybrid than I did with my UMFF. How did the Quattro preform for you in the lab? I'd say if you have tried the two FF go with the one that you felt fit you the best. (with money being an issue) Then troll the mask roulette thread for a deal or a test drive of a hybrid. If you put the word out you are looking, your bound to get some responses. I've noticed the hybrids aren't for everyone so they do pop up for trade fairly regularly. I personally love mine.

Richard

Thanks! I found the Quattro at the lab had a lower profile which made side sleeeping a bit easier, but same issue with leaks (which I'm assuming I would break in as I did with the UMFF after a month or so) and deep face marks. I don't know if people have found the Quattro to be a genuine improvement or not in other areas. I am very curious about the Hybrid, but don't know how it would work with my facial structure or sleeping habits...how great it would be to not have something pressing on my forehead (and 80% of the rest of my face). I put a bid on one on the auction boards; if anyone here also has one I'd be happy to look into a trade. Do the Hybrid style masks work OK at double-digit pressures?

[ratkinson]

I'm at a 14 with no problems.

[RipVW]

Do consider visiting cpapauction.com to purchase your new mask. I've purchased several NEW masks there for 1/3 to 1/2 the cost of online suppliers, 1/4 the cost of local DME suppliers. And, if you don't like the mask, you can resell it on the auction and recover some of your expense (less than the new cost, but better than nothing).

[ratkinson]

[quote="RipVW"]Do consider visiting cpapauction.com to purchase your new mask. I've purchased several NEW masks there for 1/3 to 1/2 the cost of online suppliers, 1/4 the cost of local DME suppliers. And, if you don't like the mask, you can resell it on the auction and recover some of your expense (less than the new cost, but better than nothing).


Very sound advice.........there are deals to be had there.