Mask Choice for Newbie

[kbernard1977]

I recently had my sleep study and during the night I had a CPAP mask put on to try. I recall it being one that did not strap to my forehead and I slept for 5 hours straight with no interruptions. I got my CPAP mask yesterday, but I never got the choice of which design I would rather. They issued me the one that has the plastic on the forehead with straps that wrap around. It wasn't comfortable last night and I didn't sleep at all.
Is this normal? Should I try to get used to it? Or should I go back to get the one that I know I could sleep with? I do have a 30 day policy that will let me switch masks?
Any suggestions are GREATLY appreciated!

[sleep lover]

I recently had my sleep study and during the night I had a CPAP mask put on to try. I recall it being one that did not strap to my forehead and I slept for 5 hours straight with no interruptions. I got my CPAP mask yesterday, but I never got the choice of which design I would rather. They issued me the one that has the plastic on the forehead with straps that wrap around. It wasn't comfortable last night and I didn't sleep at all.
Is this normal? Should I try to get used to it? Or should I go back to get the one that I know I could sleep with? I do have a 30 day policy that will let me switch masks?
Any suggestions are GREATLY appreciated!

I had the opposite experience. Mine had a strap at the sleep center, and I had the best night sleep I've had in years. Unfortunately I haven't been able to replicate that in the 6 weeks since. I asked my DME to leave me with two masks, one with the forehead rest, and a nasal pillow mask with nothing above the nose. After 4-5 weeks I realized that the first mask leaked the least and my AHI #'s kept coming down every time I wore it. Every face is different and I believe you need to keep looking til' you find what works for you. There's a balance and a learning curve. If it's too tight, it's no good, too loose and it leaks. In the end, it's good to have a few on hand that you can switch to now and then, unless you so love one, as some cpappers seem to. I haven't gotten there yet. Allergies have made it difficult for me of late - I never had them before - and it seems that nasal issues are one of the side effects for cpap users. It has to be dealt with for the therapy to work, especially if you use a nasal mask rather than a full mask...
lots to ponder, but keep trying. I also have that 30 day policy, expired now, but I'm determined to find what's right for me to make it work.
I use the Swift nasal pillows and the Mirage Active LT, mostly the latter. My nose is taking a beating which causes all sorts of issues, but I guess that's part of the deal, it ain't easy.
I'm going to try the Mirage Vista because it stays further away from the eyes, which are puffy, red, developing twitches, not doing well. I thought I'd try one that isn't so high up on the cheeks, but still a nasal mask. If it doesn't leak much I'll be happy.
I hope this all helps you. Check out what others have to say about mask choices. Again, everyone's got different facial measurements and what fit one might not fit another. another reason these things should be easier to try on, over the counter, with way more support from the DME's and sleep centers. Feel free to contact... Lisa

[pdean44]

If your mask is not comfortable dont wait get it replaced with one that is. you are the one that has to live with it not the person selling it to you.

[LSAT]

kbernard1977....you asked..."Should I try to get used to it? Or should I go back to get the one that I know I could sleep with? I do have a 30 day policy that will let me switch masks?"

The answer should be obvious...get the mask you are the most comfortable with!

[kbernard1977]

Thanks everyone. Being new to this, I've heard differing opinions about it takes time to get used to it. I think I just don't like the crown strap and this mouth piece is a bit larger. I spoke with the Manager and she said give it one more night and if it's not comfortable, bring it in and we can try another one until we get the right one. Glad they operate their business that way!

[Redeye]

If you liked the one you used at the sleep study, start with that. Don't just try different ones randomly; you could be at it awhile that way. Find out from them (they should have notes!) which one you had when you were there. Good luck!

Redeye

[DoriC]

Can you call the sleep center where you had your study and ask them the name of the mask they used for your study? It should be on file.