FFMs increasing leakage

[seamonkey21]

Since I've been using a FFM I've noticed that my leakage rates seem to have increased dramatically (my doc has my card, so I don't have any specifics today). I went to a FFM due to constant stuffy nose making me feel suffocated with my nasal mask. I tried a nasal pillow mask once, but ended up with more of a sore nose from it than I've ever experienced.

Are FFMs more prone to higher leakage rates than their nasal counterparts? I assume if i can't somehow get the rate down i need to get back to a nasal mask (here I come, Afrin!). My AHI is still pretty crappy, ~ 10, so I assume the leaks probably aren't helping.

[Wulfman]

Not all full face masks are created equal. Some work better and worse for different people. Everybody's different. Much of it has to do with the shape of a person's face, whether they have any facial hair (men), how they're adjusted and then there are some masks that are poorly designed. In theory, the full face masks may have potentially more leakage tendencies because there is more area to seal. Lots of other full face masks to try before painting them all with a broad brush as being leaky. Also, bed pillows can make a HUGE difference in the ability (or not) of masks to work well for a person. And, too much humidity can have the effect of making a person congested.

Whatever you do......STAY AWAY FROM THE Afrin!!! It actually creates MORE congestion.

Den

[seamonkey21]

that's true about the Afrin, it does seem to cause more problems than anything else.

one thing i did also realize is that I've had a beard now for a little over a year. I keep it short, or else it itches and I tend to pull on it out of nervous habit. But, it could contribute to leaking I suppose. I would consider shaving, but I look like a real goob (or at least feel like one) without it now - I've gotten pretty fond of it.

Not all full face masks are created equal. Some work better and worse for different people. Everybody's different. Much of it has to do with the shape of a person's face, whether they have any facial hair (men), how they're adjusted and then there are some masks that are poorly designed. In theory, the full face masks may have potentially more leakage tendencies because there is more area to seal. Lots of other full face masks to try before painting them all with a broad brush as being leaky. Also, bed pillows can make a HUGE difference in the ability (or not) of masks to work well for a person. And, too much humidity can have the effect of making a person congested.

Whatever you do......STAY AWAY FROM THE Afrin!!! It actually creates MORE congestion.

Den

[builta]

Hi,

I agree with Wulfman. I think that it might be enlightening for you to look at the information about "engineered leak rates" of the different types and brands of the various masks and nasal appliances.

(Extracted from the link below) DSM has compiled some comparisons at this link http://www.internetage.com/cpapinfo/leak-rates-1.html

A more complete discussion exists in "Our Wisdom" at this link our-collective-cpap-wisdom/solving-CPAP ... blems.html

Just remember though that there are many more "Moving Parts" (more muscles, skin, hair and the jaw) and more hard bones and teeth that the FFM has to work with.

Just a thought, Have you considered trying a Fisher & Paykle FlexiFit HC432 (potentially one size larger then you currently use for your HC431)? I find that the cushion and seal works better for me (i.e.: I have fewer leaks with the 432 then the 431.) You would actually need a HC432 mask frame but the HC431 silicone seals fit the HC432 mask (the 431 is not designed to hold the foam cushion--but the HC432 can be used with or without the foam).

[charliemack]

I had high leakage rate using Resmed Quattro mask. I concluded that during the night as normal body oils were secreted and possibly the gel portion of the mask causing more due to contact with my face, the mask would move begin to leak. Of course, head movement during the night also caused the mask to move an leak due.

I purchased and used the Remzzs cloths and have not had severe leakage problems since.

I also made sure the hose was always pused onto the machine as well as one time I did not and had some leakage problems.