Help with masks

brodon38 · Post by **brodon38** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 4:43 pm

Ok I am on my third mask still not satisfied, tried flex fit, just bought SwiftII used it twice & find it iratates my nose, can't remember what the first one was sold it. Any one have any input getting desperate. & about to give up!!!!!!!

Claire · Post by **Claire** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 5:32 pm

No, no, don't give up. Explain what masks you've been using and the problems you've had. People here have a lot of experience and can help.

bdp522 · Post by **bdp522** » Mon Apr 21, 2008 8:18 pm

Did you try using Ayr Gel? It will help with the irritation to the nares. Like Claire said, if you post the problems you're having with your masks, we may be able to help.
It would also be a good idea for you to fill out your profile. This way we can see what machine, mask, etc. you use.

Brenda

alnhwrd · Post by **alnhwrd** » Tue Apr 22, 2008 12:26 am

Brodon,

Do not give up! Masks are about the most difficult part of CPAP to get comfortable with. I strongly suggest that that you spend some time reading some of the articles that can be found by clicking on the Yellow Lightbulb on the top of the page. Here are a couple of articles specifically on masks to get you started.

cpaptalk-articles/390/CPAP-Mask-Choices.html

cpaptalk-articles/solving-CPAP-mask-problems.html

The bad news is that there is no perfect mask. The good news is that it is possible to adapt either yourself to the mask or the mask to yourself. There is a thread on the site about swapping masks, and you can sell them on CPAP auction and buy cheaper masks there. With the Swift, try different sized pillows, they come in small med and large. I had the mediums which totally sucked rocks for me, then I tried the large and it looks like I will be able to actually use the mask now. I do understand your frustration. It took me 2-3 weeks to adapt to my Mirage, but once I got my issues under control and started sleeping better it was very nice. Now I hardly notice it is on. Best of luck.