Newbie - mask makes me crazy

[dancer]

OK I'm new and have been reading this forum for a couple of days now. Even though I requested a less formidable mask than what I tried during the sleep study I ended up with the full-on headgear nasal mask and it's making me crazy. Started May 15. My nose hurts, I wake up after four hours and can't stand it any more. Best luck so far using a gauze pad on bridge of nose but the claustrophobia and panic still kick in. Prefer not to use sleeping pills. The CPAP itself seems fine and works (my hubby is sleeping much better) but I really need to find a better interface. Is there something out there more like a nasal cannula such as works with oxygen? I don't mind a longer cannula that goes up the nose. I have a Remstar plus with humidifier and ramp, setting 8. Thanks!

[Snoozin' Bluezzz]

For me the most effective and least intrusive effective interface has been the Swift. I have long eyeballed the Nasalaire II which functions exactly like you describe your desires.

Other folks really like the ComfortLite2 and Headrest/Aura. They are very comfortable but have not provided therapy as effectively for me as the Swift.

I have since tried the Activa with shallow cushions with a litte success but it immediately made my nose break out with my chronic rosacea. I haven't gone back yet.

I hated the nasal mask in both sleep tests and the one I was sent home from the DME with. When I finally returned to therapy (2 years later) I went to the sleep lab where they offered the Swift, Activa, Breeze and a couple of others. I immediately took to the Swift with no sense of claustrophobia and no great discomfort after I found the right pillows and got the head gear adjusted right. This doesn't mean it has been perfect but, for me, it has been the best. I have been 100% (7.5+ hours a night) compliant in the subsequent 5 months.

Read Roztom's posts for another perspective though. Because of slotted and irregular nares he suffered greatly with the Swift so not all interfaces are for everyone.

David

[MandoJohnny]

I am a newbie to CPAP and still getting used to it, but I have to say I also like the Swift. You should ask your doc if it will work for you.