new problems with Swift/taping

lvehko · Post by **lvehko** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 11:23 am

I've been doing mostly OK using the Swift nasal pillows system and mouth taping, but have been running into problems lately...

One, the tape I use just won't stick well all night, especially on particularly drooly nights. I posted about this before and several people suggested using 'micropore' tape -- I've also seen 'transpore' tape -- is that the same thing? I think it is, just transparent. Does this stuff stick even when it's wet? That seems to be the main problem for me. The other issue there is that I have NO idea where to get it, except on-line, where the shipping is usually as much or more than the tape itself. I'll have to call around town and see if I can get it locally. Is there a 'tape review' thread? If not, we should start one!

Secondly, the headstrap on the Swift is working less well now for some reason. The back strap rides up over the top of my head during the night (I guess my hair is too slippery) and makes the thing move all around. I've always had minor problems with this mask because I'm a side sleeper -- whenever I turn over onto my side, I have to adjust the fit to keep it from leaking.

Which brings me to my main beef -- I would really like to be able to try a couple of masks to see which one will work best, but because these things can't be returned, I'd essentially have to take out a second mortgage to be able to do that. I wish there were a 'mask lending library' or something where I could just go and put the mask on my face to see how it fit. I bought a full face Resmed mask when I was trying to solve the mouth leak problem, and knew as soon as I put it on that there was no way I could sleep in it. That little experiment cost me $100 that I can't get back (if anybody wants this mask, I'll be glad to sell it to ya...) -- I mean I understand why these things can't be returned -- I wouldn't want to buy a mask knowing somebody else had drooled all over it, even if it HAD been autoclaved -- but it's really maddening not to be able to try masks before having to fork over the bucks. I wonder if we could somehow start a 'mask libary' where we have masks that we lend out for a deposit (equal to the cost of the mask, in case we have to replace them). I'd be willing to do that, if people want to send me their rejects... or is that just a crazy idea? What do you guys think?

Min

birdshell · Post by **birdshell** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 1:09 pm

I had the same side-sleeping and slippery strap problem with the Mirage Swift. I found that the straps had to be a bit looser than I originally thought in order to stay in place.

I have had my CPAP machine a little over 2 months, and have had the DME provider loan me 3 different masks. Now I have the Comfort Lite 2 (FINALLY) and am still working on getting this new thing to work.

You are so right, that this concept of "buy to try" is ridiculous. Who do we think used the one we tested at the sleep lab, besides us? Probably about 14 other people, according to the recommendations. If that is true, then you have a GREAT idea.

Hang in there and contact the DME provider where you purchased your masks. The ResMed and Respironics companies are supposed to have a 30 day return policy on masks, as well.

oldgearhead · Post by **oldgearhead** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 1:29 pm

M -

1) I buy the 2" 3M Micropore tape at Walgreens. It is paper and it doesn't stick well to wet places, like the lips. Isn't that a good thing?

2) Your head-strap is either stretched or getting slick from use. have you tried:
A) Making it tighter.
B) Washing it in baby shampoo.

3) The literature provided with most new masks explain, in detail, the procedure for cleaning the mask between users. Its more involved than the cleaning procedure for a single user.

Just keep your eyes open. You should be able to get a low mileage mask for half price. In fact Yahoo Auctions has a couple right now.

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 3:20 pm

Regarding headgear slipping:

I don't have this problem because I use the De-constructed Aura with two pantyhose straps, but our lab-rats should be able to come up with a "slightly sticky substance" which leaves a rough residue on the headgear straps. Just smear it on the straps and let it dry. Something that would easily wash out of the hair in the mornings. Or something that doesn't even rub off on the hair.

Surely the "lab" can up with a few suggestions.

Snoozin' Bluezzz · Post by **Snoozin' Bluezzz** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 3:38 pm

Here are two threads that might help. The first is pretty long but goes into some detail as to how to keep the head gear from slipping.

Swift Tips #1

Swift Tips #2

Added a third which is not directly germane but useful nonetheless.

Swift Tips #3

David

snoregirl · Post by **snoregirl** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 5:56 pm

I tried something I read on a post here and it works really well.

I have long hair, so I put my hair between the straps. This holds the lower strap down and it doesn't slip nearly as much.

But, You need to have some hair for this to work.

snoregirl · Post by **snoregirl** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 5:59 pm

I don't know if my tape is "micro pore or not" but I have tried a bunch and so far I like this one the best

Nextcare from 3 m

It say gentle paper tape bar code 051131913868.

I have gotten it a couple places, most recently from a Rite Aid drug store

I am sure that there are other good ones or even better ones.

vicinsb · Post by **vicinsb** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 8:16 pm

I put my hair in a ponytail and put the back strap under it. That seems to work for me okay. When I turn on my side I keep my head on the edge of the pillow (one of these firm pillows that are shaped for your head to fit into-sorry I can't think of the name) so the mask really doesn't touch too much.
Vicky

Rapunzel111 · Post by **Rapunzel111** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 9:10 pm

I too had straps on my mask that kept slipping because I have very long straight hair all the way down my back.When I go to sleep I probably look like a space creature anyway,because I first put on an eye mask to block out the light.Next thing is my headgear,which is Swift's with the nasal pillows,and then next is a neoprene chin strap with velcro,to hold it all in place.I wrap my hose up on my headboard.I do pull my hair out between the head straps of the headgear of my mask and then I allow some of the Velcro of the chin strap to grab some of my hair.If the headgear keeps sliding off,why don't you buy some 2 part velcro and just sew small pieces of the loop side onto the inside of your headgear where it contacts your hair?I know this will work,because I have seen velcro used to hold small hair bows in baby's hair (since they don't have much,or it is wispy thin)and it works well.

birdshell · Post by **birdshell** » Mon Jul 03, 2006 9:29 pm

I use my ponytail to hold the straps in place, but then I am a side sleeper. Also, I had been advised to put my chin strap on first, then the headgear, Mind you this was with the Swift, using the Tiara Ruby chin strap.

My ponytail then went above the chin strap in back and below the lower Swift strap. The velcro idea is a good one, and I have often said we should have velcro implants. Great application of the baby idea!

Minerva, this mouth taping procedure has worked well for me:

Just One Man's Very Successful Mouth Taping Procedure 6/2/06
viewtopic.php?t=9653

I found the 1"and 2" paper NexCare/Micropore tape cheapest at my DME provider. When my mother had surgery Friday, I noted the turquoise dispensers with the one-inch tape. Since I am now using a one inch piece vertically in the center of the mouth, the dispenser would be perfect. I meant to ask about them, but got busy with other things.

new problems with Swift/taping

new problems with Swift/taping

I hear, and identify with, your pain!

Slippery Straps

My Ponytail, Just One Guy's Mouth Taping

Mask

Additional Comments: Started CPAP June 14, 2006, pressure set at 8.0