Best nasal pillow for a BiPAP

[The Dude]

Hi!

I've been using a BiPAP for a few months now, and I'm having difficulty finding a good mask fit. I first tried an F&P full face, but it rode so low on my nose, my nose swelled, and looked like I got punched. I've since been trying one of those Pilairo masks. For CPAP users, I bet that inflating pillow would be fantastic! For me, it keeps inflating and deflating, all the while tearing up my nostrils, no matter what I use to moisturize the area. Other than that, the nose pillow was very comfortable when compared to the full face. That being said, the question for any BiPAP users with nose pillows is: what have you found that works? My current average high pressure on my BiPAP is between 13 and 14. I'm looking, like everyone else, for a good seal and a comfortable fit. A quiet mask would be a bonus, as the Pilairo whistles like mad.

Thanks for any advice!

The Dude

[Pugsy]

Take a look at the Swift FX nasal pillows or the Aloha or even the Tap Pap that I use if you find it interesting. See which one peaks your interest.
I have used all of those...and still could quite easily and comfortably.

[ems]

I use the Swift FX and find it comfortable and quiet. Important you get the correct fit tho. I also use the barrel cozy that Pad-a-Cheek makes and that helps make it even more comfortable.

[cpierc01]

I use a Bipap pressure 5 on exhale and 11 on inhale. I use the pilarno(spelling??) since the beginning and really like it. I did have an issue in the beginning with making my nostril sore. This will sound strange but I used blistex for a couple of days and it clear right up and so no more issues so far.

[bosstow]

I have pretty high pressures (frequently see at or above 20 for IPAP) and for me, nasal pillows seal better than any other type of mask. Less surface area to seal, combined with a good design. A lot of folks will tell you nasal pillows are a challenge at high pressures - my experience has been the other types of masks are harder to maintain a seal. The trick is being able to NOT leak from your mouth.

[John from Brookston]

Here's another vote for the Swift FX. My pressure is 19/13 and I have no trouble maintaining a seal as long as I keep the pillows CLEAN. I wipe them with a wipe every morning and wash in hot water and neutral soap a couple times a week and replace them about every 3 months.

You mentioned that they kept inflating and deflating and tore your nostrils up. You're not sticking them INTO your nostrils, by chance? They're supposed to sit outside your nostrils and inflate/seal there. I tried the medium pillows but they slipped into my nose so i went to the large, and it's perfect. Another trick to try is lightly applying lanolin nipple grease (for nursing mothers) to the nares of your nose. It's kinda sticky and may help.

Good luck! Nasal pillows rock!

[mellabella]

Putting in another vote of confidence for the Swift FX (and I'm at 18/14, so high pressure)--but also want to mention that I'm currently on a hiatus from it due to a sore under my nose, and the Nasal Aire II has been working as well. Not as quiet however.