My hybrid mask

[simonteddy]

I have to admit I hate CPAP masks. I love the feeling of air coming through my nose, but I just can't get used to any kind of headgear. I tried the Aloha, the Pilairo and another brand that Apria gave me. The Aloha, which is very highly rated by consumers, still felt too restrictive for me to use. The Pilairo Q has a simple 1/4 elastic type strap and no other headgear, but I couldn't breathe when the nasal pillows sealed up on my nose. (Even with nose strips)!

So after much trial and error (and making my wife nuts), we cobbled together a hybrid using the simple strap from the Pilairo and the nasal pillows from the Aloha. After I decided I wasn't going to use the Aloha, I had to cut off some parts to rig up the new mask. Tonight I tried it and it felt great. I don't understand why all the masks can't just use a simple strap like the Pilairo (all they have to do is make it adjustable). I just want to let people know that sometimes jerryrigging your own "headgear" may be the best way to deal with the challenges of getting used to a CPAP mask. I look forward to a great sleep tonight with my new hybrid mask!