Best Full Face Mask?

[paolo]

I'm new to cpap or at least really trying to make it work.
I have ResMed S9 which is a big improvement over my M Auto Flex.

I have been using the S9 with a Quattro for about a week. I have had some great nights, even Ahi 0 once. But, also some like last night when I woke at 4:00 with my mask off. There was no recording on Rescan of any use before 4:00 when I put the mask back on. From then on all seemed well. But, I think I was getting no therapy for a long time and feel hammered today. Other nights I've woke with my mask on but no flow.

My best guess is I'm getting big leaks and the the machine is shutting down, and I wake, but only after a long time without therapy, or I remove the mask in my sleep.

I've read the currant thread about Quattro leaks, and plan to try face washing and Lansinoh.

But, I wonder if I'd be better off with a different mask.

I'm pretty frustrated because when its worked well it makes all the difference, but a day like today is a real drag. But, I guess I don't have to explain that to all of you.

Best,

Mitchell

[WindFlyer]

I've always stuck with ResMed's Ultra Mirage Full Face mask. I tried the quattro at the DME but it was a leaker for me- not so with it's predecessor and I don't know why- but since it's not broken I won't fix it kind of thing.

I tired the Hans-Rudolph 7600 V2 and it sealed magnificently while I was awake sitting watching TV and soforth, but once I laid down to sleep and my face muscles relaxed it became a leaker at times. I had a few good nights with it, but on the whole it just had too many off nights when it leaked. So I went back to the old reliable UMFF.

[jmelby]

The only full face mask that works for me to not leak excessively is the ComfortGel FFM. I still only use it when I'm congested because it's not as comfortable as my Activa LT and does still leak some.

[wjp]

I am a little concerned that your post does not describe leaks at all.

You describe waking with your mask totally off, or mask on with the machine not running, but nothing about leaks.

I would start by checking the machine. It sounds like it is set to auto start. I am not a fan of that setting for just this reason. I want to hit the button and know that it's running and wont shut off till I tell it to.

As for the best Full Face mask, no one will be able to answer that question for you. It's very dependant on your face, pressure, and personal sleeping habits. For the previous poster the Comfort Gel works great. For me, that same mask absolutely will not seal. With my pressure and nose shape the cushion just blows right out around my eyes.

Best thing you could do is contact your DME or sleep clinic and see if they can provide any loaners to try out.

I've owned or tried virtually every Full Face mask on the market, and the list that work for me is pretty short. If they will lend you a mask to take home and use for a couple of days that would be best, but at a minimum you do need to have the air flowing and assume your normal sleeping position to get a clue if it's going to work.

[Ruffinit]

I tried out a good 2 dozen masks and the only one that fit, is comfortable and works well with high pressure is the Drive or ZZzz FFM. I've used it for almost 4 months and just recently replaced it with another. This was actually the last mask she had me check out.

[DreamDiver]

I tried out a good 2 dozen masks and the only one that fit, is comfortable and works well with high pressure is the Drive or ZZzz FFM. I've used it for almost 4 months and just recently replaced it with another. This was actually the last mask she had me check out.

I agree with Ruffinit. THe ZZZ is an excellent mask. As always, I suggest replacing the strap with one from a different ff because the one that comes with it is junk. It's an inexpensive mask, and if you already have a full face, just switch out the strap. Beyond that, in order of preference: UMFF, Hybrid. Masks are pretty personal, so your mileage may vary.

Good luck finding the best mask for you.