Best Mask for Beards?

[cmpokstl]

I need to know what mask work the best with people that have beards. I keep mine short and trimmed.

I have been using the Respironics BiPap Auto M Series with the Remed Mirage Quattro Full face mask for a couple of weeks. I purchased the card reader and EncoreViewer software. According to the reports, my mask has a large number of leaks.

I went back to the DME yesterday and was told that the Quattro mask that I have is one of the best on the market (The Cadillac of mask). I noticed a noticeable improvement since using the BiPap and can only wonder how much better I would feel if I were getting the full benefit of therapy without the mask leaks.

I know that shaving my beard would give me the best opportunity of minimizing the mask leak issue, but I’m saving that option as my last resort. I’m 61 and have had my beard for over 40 years. I have included as much info as I can, in hopes that someone can both advise me about a better working mask and also comment on how my therapy is working.

Thanks to all who provide any feedback!!

Sleep Study Results:
AHI = 27.6
RDI = 87.9

Encore Report Summary:
Average Obstructive Apnea Index = 5.1
Average Hypopnea Index = 9.1
Average AHI = 14.2
Average Vibratory Snore Index = 13.3
Average Max Leak = 110.2
Average 90% leak = 83.1
Average Leak = 72.7
Average Large Leak = 3 hrs. 18 mins. 20 secs.

Equipment:
Respironics BiPap Auto M Series with BiFlex
Heated humidifier
Remed Mirage Quattro Mask

Settings:
IPAP = 9
EPAP = 5

[GumbyCT]

I’m 61 and have had my beard for over 40 years.

So you prob realize - it WILL grow back? Just something to consider. But prob not worth your life is it?

You can also use a nasal mask or pillows. I know, I know - never thought I could do the nasal pillows either.

Fact is the nose was made to breath thru and does a fine job of only letting in the right amount of air. I at 18/15cm and the Aeiomed Headrest works wonderful for me. No strap marks, easy on, easy off - oh and seals great.

Hands down the best I've tried sooo far - after 8 other masks mostly full face. I was told by many that at my pressure nasal pillows would never work, ha!

You be the judge; your call - the beard or the nose?
https://www.cpap.com/productpage/1717

Good Luck,
GumbyCT

[DreamStalker]

Yep ... your leaks are a bit high. I have a full beard and although I use a nasal pillow interface, I have trialed a few full face masks. There are others who also have a full beard and successfully use a FF mask.

FF masks are the most difficult to get a proper seal regardless of whether you have a beard or not because there is just much more 3-D facial real estate that needs to stay sealed all night long. Throw in natural facial oils spewing out of your skin during the night and you have a seal ready to leak.

If you think you can keep your mouth shut while you sleep (your pressure settings are not that high so it may be possible), then you should consider the nasal pillow interface which makes no difference if you have a beard or mustache. Otherwise, you need to keep trying different FF masks until you find one that works ... finding the right mask is 90% of the treatment.

BTW - ask your DME if he/she has ever slept with the Quattro without having it leak ... if they say yes, then tell them they found the Cadillac mask for them but not neccessarily for you.

[Krelvin]

For a long time I used a ComfortFull2.... Worked well... A while back the bridge on the one I was using broke at night and I ended up using a spare F&P HC431 I had on hand.... I was surprised that it seemed to work better with my beard than the other. It also has a smaller profile up front so that I can sleep better face down (hard to explain).

The only issue I had with it was the square forehead rest that would leave an impression of a square right in the middle of my forehead... I solved that by placing a rectangular thin plastic card between it and my forehead when I put the mask on...

I am now on my third mask of that model since.

The only real problem with trying to find the optimal mask is the cost. It is hard to tryout different masks as a result.

[JeffH]

I have had a full beard 99% of the time I've been on CPAP. Any nasal pillow interface should let you keep your beard. I use the Adams and have for about 10 years now.

[cmpokstl]

GumbyCT - Yes, I'm aware that my beard will grow back, and I'm willing to shave it if all else fails. I want to explore other options first. I have tried the Nasal options in my previous attemps using CPAP (This is my 3rd try). I'm a mouth breather and have not found anything that will prevent it. If you know of a good way to use a Nasal option that will keep my mouth shut, I would LOVE to hear about it. I Agree fully that the nasal pillow option would probably work and feel the best.

DreamStalker - As I stated to GumbyCT, I have been unable to find a way to keep my mouth shut while using a nasal pillow system. I have tried chin straps, but still breath thru my mouth. Perhaps a better chin strap would work.

Krelvin - When I went back to the DME Monday, they gave me a ComfortFull2 mask to try. I haven't tried it yet, but will tonight.

JeffH - I may take another look into nasal pillows, if I can't find a Full Face mask that will not leak (Not have large leaks, as all mask have some leakage).

Again, Thanks to those who replied!!

[ErnieH]

I'm the same age, pretty much the same situation and numbers. I use the Sleepnet IQ plus a chin strap. I have a new Quattro Full Face I've used a couple of hours, but the leakage is a problem. The Sleepnet IQ is all gel and comfortable and leak free with my mustach and beard.

Best of luck,
Ernie