Number of masks, etc

[DanWinn]

How many masks does everyone have? How often do you change your mask? I have had my cpap for 6 months and I have only changed my mask twice. Once because I could not breathe through my nose and secondly because I had an upper respiratory infection. Also, would insurance pay for two masks?

[zoocrewphoto]

How many masks does everyone have? How often do you change your mask? I have had my cpap for 6 months and I have only changed my mask twice. Once because I could not breathe through my nose and secondly because I had an upper respiratory infection. Also, would insurance pay for two masks?

I have been on cpap for a year and 9 months. I have 3 masks, and I had one other that I did not keep. Two of my masks are the same type (quattro fx). My sleep tech picked it for me, and it fit well, so I picked that one when I got my machine. I got a second one the next year so that I would have a backup if one were to get stepped on or something. I also have the Oracle mask (oral only). I need to practice with it more as I like it, and I would like to use it more often. I already breathe through my mouth only without nasal plugs, so that isn't a problem. But I am not used to my teeth/jaw being open as far as the oracle mask requires. I used to my teeth being only a few mm open. So, that is something I will have to learn to get used to.

As for insurance, it really depends on your insurance. Some make you wait 3 or 6 months. Mine allowed me to get a second mask a month after the first. But I don't know what my limit really is, or if that is because I was just starting out. I do have a 15% copay, and full face masks are more expensive, especially from a DME, so a 15% copay is still about $45 for my mask. I got my second mask when I was still struggling to master the first one. I decided I liked the first one better, so I stuck with it. Last May, I asked about ordering the Oracle, and was about 6 weeks after ordering the second quattro fx (which was almost a year after the first two masks). I asked how soon I could try the new mask, and they said no problem, I didn't need to wait.

SO, I would call your insurance company and ask them directly. Then you will know what you are able to do. I think it is best to have a second mask as soon as you can so that if you have a problem, you have another mask.

[Sheriff Buford]

You are going to get answers all over the page. I'm not sure if you are askin' "How many different masks do folks have?" or "How many of the same masks do folks have?". I use two... the Fitlife Total and the Resmed Quatrro. The Resmed is a backup and I use the Fitlife almost 100% of the time. I can only go about 3 months before the Fitlife starts to leak around the temple area. Some folks can use a mask a whole year before needing to replace it. It depends on your facial structure and how well the mask can fit your face. Call your insurance company about the frequency of supplies. The cpap equipment usually falls under the medical supply section or the durable medical equipment section.

Sheriff

[Denial Dave]

I have 2 masks... both of them are Resmed Quattro's..... one has been in use for over a year now. due to my higher pressures, I have to change my cushion about every 2-3 months.

I got the 2nd Quattro around the 1 year mark of my therapy. I got it from my DME for emergency purposes in case my primary breaks.

[LSAT]

How many masks does everyone have? How often do you change your mask? I have had my cpap for 6 months and I have only changed my mask twice. Once because I could not breathe through my nose and secondly because I had an upper respiratory infection. Also, would insurance pay for two masks?

If you have a comfortable mask...stick with it. Always have a spare and if you have colds often it may be a good idea to have a full face mask too.. If you are comfortable with a full face mask that may be all you need. I never understood the purpose of rotating masks or using many different kinds. I personally have been using the Quattro for 4+ years...I love it. My current mask is almost 15 months old. I am on my second cushion.

[Sir NoddinOff]

A gentleman should never ask another gentleman how many masks they've had. That's like asking how many lovers one has had - it's simply not done, my good man <in my best Downton Abbey voice>

[jencat824]

I have been on CPAP 13 years and have 17 masks (soon to be 16, I'm sending 1 to someone as soon as I get to post office, I offered to someone a mask I just can't use). I like to switch due to various times of year, due to sinus conditions and just like to try to find 'THE WONDERFUL' mask. So far my 'wonderful' is the swift Lt. I've just ordered the P10 'for her' and hope I like, even hope to 'love' it.

For me, trying new and different masks help me to 'perfect' my treatment and the effort seems to help me increases my results ie; I'm not as tired during the day. Weird, yes but it works for me.

Jen

[Stormynights]

A gentleman should never ask another gentleman how many masks they've had. That's like asking how many lovers one has had - it's simply not done, my good man <in my best Downton Abbey voice>

OMG, I am a mask slut!!!!! I have had more than I can count and some I don't even remember. I have 5 in my drawer right now that get rotated from time to time. I have another on the way. As soon as I find one that doesn't wake me up with leaks I will fall in love and settle down to just one.

[Bill44133]

I started my therapy on April 30 of last year. In my search for something that works me i have collected 5. Depending how I feel is what determines which mask I wear. Like, If i am feeling irratable I wear the Zzz-Mask Full Face CPAP Mask with Headgear
It does not have the forehead support. For the daily mostly I wear the ComfortGel Blue Full face mask.