Switching From Nasal Pillows to Full Face Mask - Need Help

[BigEd]

For two years I've been using the Swift Mirage nasal pillows. I have to say that I've truly enjoyed using this mask. The problem is I just can't seem to keep my mouth shut. I've tried chin straps, mouth guards, denture tape, etc., etc.

I'm finally willing to make the leap (or take the plunge) to a full face mask. I realize that comfort is subjective - however, any advice would be appreciated. I find the nasal pillows very comfortable. I've tried the Hybrid, but can't get a good fit (nasal pillow leaks).

Any thoughts regarding a great full face mask?

Thanks so much. (And my wife thanks you.)

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CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): mirage, swift, Nasal Pillows

[mellabella]

I have the Hybrid (which fits some nights fine, other nights not)....and rotate that with the Quattro, which I find comfortable enough, for something that covers 70% of my face! You want to make sure you get the right size, otherwise leaks will drive you crazy.

What pressure are you at? Have you tried any of the fancier chin straps?

[kharyssa]

but instead of switching masks, I found that adjusting my pressure worked. I also use the nasal pillows: I had been drooling, mouth open... tried chin strap & taping, but that was uncomfortable. I decided to adjust my pressure (a little higher) and that stopped all the 'open mouth' problems. With the higher pressure, my mouth is forced shut by the suction. I don't know your full situation, but maybe a pressure adjustment is a worth a try before you abandon your comfortable nasal pillows.

[BigEd]

What pressure are you at? Have you tried any of the fancier chin
straps?

I use an auto bi-pap and my average pressure is around 17. I haven't really tried any of the fancier chin straps. Even with the chin strap keeping my mouth closed, I have a tendency to still open my lips and air escapes.

but instead of switching masks, I found that adjusting my pressure worked. I also use the nasal pillows: I had been drooling, mouth open... tried chin strap & taping, but that was uncomfortable. I decided to adjust my pressure (a little higher) and that stopped all the 'open mouth' problems. With the higher pressure, my mouth is forced shut by the suction. I don't know your full situation, but maybe a pressure adjustment is a worth a try before you abandon your comfortable nasal pillows.

Wow. I'd love to think that a pressure adjustment would do the trick. However, I'm averaging around 17 - 18 already, wouldn't a higher pressure just blow my mouth open? That's almost what happens now.

[mellabella]

That's funny-- I found when my pressure was raised to 13, it effectively "glued" my tongue to the roof of my mouth, creating a seal. (I have no idea what happens when I relax into full REM though, as I don't have a machine that detects/reports leaks.) I'm surprised you're not getting the same effect at 17!

[kharyssa2]

I was told that when the pressure is 'correct' you will not be able to open your mouth and speak easily because the airflow forces your tongue create a pressure seal. Perhaps it's that your pressure is too HIGH, rather than too low - especially if it feels like your mouth is practically blowing open as it is! Personally, I would play with the settings until I found the one that worked - sometimes a small difference of .5 can solve alot of problems (-.4 solved all mine).

Or maybe your anatomy or soft tissue is just unique?? That's certainly been the case for some folks.

Hang in there!

-kharyssa

[WindFlyer]

When it comes to full face masks the consensus seems to be that the Ultra-Mirage by ResMed is number one, with the F&P HC432 coming in a close second. Best bet as always, though, is to stop in to your DME and try on a few and see which one works best for you.

[yorkiemum01]

10,000+ hours on CPAP
100% Compliant for 4 yrs.+

Wow....Wow....thats compliance! way to go