Can't find the right mask

[Archwife]

I have been using cpap for 3 1/2 years and can't find a mask that is comfortable and/or works for me. I've been using nasal pillows but not getting full effectiveness because I discovered I open my mouth during the night. I've tried at least 6 or 7 other masks (full face, total face and hybrid) and they either leak or bruise my nose. Help!

[jencat824]

I don't personally use a FFM, but my hubby does.

I would suggest the new AirFit F10 mask if you want to try another FFM.

Also I would suggest a bite guard or other dental appliance which might help keep your mouth closed at night.

Another suggestion might be the Tap Pap mask which is nasal pillows held in place using an upper mouth piece, not really sure if that is a good suggestion, just guessing on my part. Hopefully a Tap Pap user can comment on that mask with more intelligence than I can. For me its just a guess.

Also, it would be helpful for you to register & go to the User Control Panel to fill in your data on your machine, mask & humidifier. And in the comment are put your pressure. It helps us each to best help each other by having that info handy (see the blue text under my post).

Welcome to the forum,
Jen

[Janknitz]

It would also help us if you would list the masks you have tried, and the problems you had with each, so we can help you zero in on what works and what doesn't.

[KathyJL]

I hope you don't mind if I hijack your post, but I'm having the same problem. I've tried various masks and the one I've had greatest success with is TapPap (see below for my suggestions on that for you). However, sometimes I get tired of it and want to use a nasal mask, but can't find one that works for me. Key info: I am a side and stomach sleeper, and I don't like headgear that goes across my forehead. My history:
Swift FX nasal pillows for 3.5 years with not-so-great sleep.
TapPap primarily from May 2013 to present with good sleep.
Wisp on occasion, but causes pain and redness on bridge of my nose. Tried thin fabric to cushion, but didn't work.
Nano nasal mask for past 5 days, which is much better on the bridge of my nose, but the headgear slips and the seal leaks. Tried Swift FX headgear, but still having issues with leaks in mask.
Anyone have suggestions on modifications or the next mask to try?

Archwife: I recommend trying TapPap. There's a mouthpiece that molds to your upper teeth. This leads to a stable solid plastic structure which holds your nasal pillows in place. My leaks were almost non-existent. Nothing on nose, so no bruising or redness. No headgear, either. I believe they have a chin strap for it, which could help with keeping your mouth closed. It really is my mask of choice, although like I mentioned above, sometimes I need a break from it and would like an alternative that works just as well.

[Sclark08]

I have had about 300 masks and didn't like any of them. I am a mouth breather. I had septoplasty ( nose job) to help me breathe better didn't work.
I am due for a new mask next month. I have heard good things about the Innomed hybrid which is a FF mask with nasal pillows in 3 different sizes and a chin support to aid mouth breathers.
My neighbor is a hose head and she uses the Hybrid and loves it. A mask is such a personal part of the process I don't think anyone can really recommend you just have to keep trying!!
I also use a bite guard at nite which aids in keeping your mouth closed.
Best of luck never give up!

[Jeannh]

Nano nasal mask for past 5 days, which is much better on the bridge of my nose, but the headgear slips and the seal leaks.

I also tried lots of masks. Don't give up, you'll find some that work! Remember that not everyone gets a comfy mask AND a nice flat leak line. As long as I keep leaks around the level that my S9 says they can accommodate, I call it a good night.

Re: the Nano - it works with Bella Loops that go over your ears - no headgear! This made all the difference for me.

YMMV, of course.

[KathyJL]

Tried the Bella loops. They made the outside of my ears hurt. I think I'm a bit of a physically sensitive person.

[Day_Dreamer]

they either leak or bruise my nose. Help!

I have been going through the same issue

The True Blue Nasal mask works best for me with leaks and red marks. Its big but extremely comfortable. Every other mask seems to leak by my eyes ( I must have a pencil thin bridge)

Pick up a chin strap as well

Also try a vendor that has a full refund on 30 day trials, If you do not like it you can keep trying others with little monetary loss......

good luck