Mask saga

[lvehko]

Hi everybody! It's been ages since I posted, glad to see everyone is still hanging around and 'getting hosed.'

I've been using the Mirage Activa mask for the last, oh I guess four months or so... it works good, but there are some niggling problems with it. I have a really high nose bridge, so I have to set the mask angle at the lowest setting, which forces the outside part of the flexible mask cushion to push against my lips. It's not really uncomfortable, just annoying.

Also, for some reason, it tends to 'ride up' my face all night. Inspired by RestedGal, I did some field modifications to the head gear that seemed to solve that problem, but created a new one -- I'm now getting a big permanent red mark on the bridge of my nose. I put a band-aid over it before going to bed, but it still happens.

I was due for a mask replacement just recently, so I tried out the Comfortgel, and talk about mask marks! I guess I had to wear it pretty tight so it won't leak, and it took all morning for the marks on my face to disappear. This is just one night's use - I'll give it a few more tries before I write it off for good.

I figured that my high nose bridge is what's causing most of the problems, so I looked for a nasal mask that has some flexibility in that area and saw the F&P nasal masks. I just ordered one, we'll see if it's a better fit for me than the Activa. If not, I guess I'll have to figure out a way to 'improve' my Activa.

Any other high-bridged, slotted nostrils CPAPers on board?

Min

[roster]

Have you tried nasal pillows?

[Snoredog]

The Activa can ride up then cut into your nare area. I had to trim the inner flap below the nose to prevent that. Finally gave up on that mask altogether.

The ComfortGel needs to be boiled per instructions for a good fit. You hold it in boiling water for alloted time get it good and hot then quickly dip it in ice water in a bowl so it doesn't burn you and immediately hold it tight to your face.
That customizing worked pretty good for me, but then the mask was still noisy so I went to the Soyala which can also leave a red mark if not adjusted properly. You cannot adjust it except in/out while wearing it, but it has dedicated slots where you can move the forehead support in/out and prevent the red marks while not letting it leak into the eyes. Once it is set, it is set and you don't loose your settings.

There is a night/day difference in noise levels between those you are using and the Soyala. Its cushion seals with air pressure and seals just as good if not better than the Activa.

[sleepyred]

I sure understand what you are going through. I am lucky that the mirage activa works well for me. Have you tried putting it on as loose as you can and just tightening it just enough to stop the leaks? The bridge of my nose does hurt occassionally.

I just am having trouble with a ff mask since I am a mouth breather who is not ready for taping.

I agree about the nasal pillows - have you tried the breeze? I like to try any masks which come with different size pillows or mask inserts. Where do you get your masks? Can you go back to your sleep center and try out a few there? That's what I recently did - I had no idea my insurance would cover me going there. At least they had a bed and someone who some what knew what they were doing. Instead of a chair at the DME.

Good luck and keep us posted with what you are trying. I hope that the right mask comes your way soon!

Sleepyred

[Guest]

If you want to try a Pillow system, try the Twilight NP.

I tried the comfort lite II for couple weeks, without beiing able to stop the leakage. When I tried the Twilight wit the good pillow (XL for me) it fitted perfectly

[Severeena]

I would try the Hans Rudolph full face mask.

I can sleep on my side and back.

I do have some face marks, but after wahing my face and putting my face cream the marks are gone.

I have to keep repeating this and I am quoting myself.

Not all masks are for everyone. What might work for one may not work for another.

[woozle]

I have same problem with the bridge of my nose

I tried the pro lite for awhile and it actually was great - i had a large narrow and the way it fits, it was the first mask that did not bother the bridge of my nose and teh design of it there is no ridge to push on the bridge of the nose - however, for some reason the exhale ports on that design makes me feel like I have getting too much co2 so I can't really sleep with it

the f and p 407 works well for bridge of nose - but is what I have to do is actually cut the part that sits on the bridge of my nose - I kind of arc it like it is designed but take enough off so I don't get a bad bone bruise on the bridge of my nose - it takes practice - but that is the best nasal mask that works for me w/ the bridge problem - and I use the scuba sticky stuff to keep it on w/ minimal leaks - I have tried most nasal masks but won't go into all reasons why don't work -mainly it is due to bridge of nose probs - swift is my preferred but I have continuing sinus issues
good luck

[KimberlyinMN]

I really like the ComfortLite 2 with the nasal pillows. No strap marks (no straps on the face), no mask marks... and I can sleep on my side. I am in LOVE with the mask!

Kimberly