Newbie Question - Mask Leak Rate

[dirpi]

I am about a week into my treatment and I'm in the beginning stages of my lifelong search for the perfect mask. I tend to sleep on my stomach with one side my face mashed into a pillow, so it's not been fun so far...

The mask I have used for all but one night is a Mirage LT. I am tolerating the treatment fairly well, but trying to minimize the discomfort caused by the mask when I wake up.

I am trying to keep the straps as loose as possible while still keeping my mask in place. So here's the big question:

My machine (M Series Auto w/A-Flex) reports leak rates that vary each night, but no "large leaks". Is anything other than a "large leak" compensated for by the auto-adjustment mechanism in the machine or do I need to do my best to get the leak numbers down as far as possible?

On a side note, I'm going to have to try a different mask tonight because I'm developing a painful spot on my nose similar to a blister. Any recommendations?!?

Thanks in advance. The great information available on these forums is exceptionally helpful for many of us who have busy or unconcerned sleep professionals.

[6PtStar]

Depends on how much above the design exaust rate you are. Each mask is different. Look at the paperwork that came with your mask and see what it is. Resprionics machines measure the total rate and you have to subtract what the design exaust rate for your mask to see how you are doing. In general the machine can compensate for leaks up to around 40 to 50 Ltrs/min. Beyond that you are losing therapy. Generally if you have Encore and the leak line is fairly flat and does not look like the roller coster at coney island you are most likely OK.

I have found several masks that the actual exaust rate is a bit higher that what the manufacturer listed. Someone recently posted a way to check your actual mask by sealing off the elbow and then see what the machine records with all the air going out the exaust ports.

Large leaks are only recorded if you get a leak that is above 75 ltrs/min and a duration of 45 sec (I think if my memory is not failing me). Could still be bad and not record a Large leak.

Jerry

[DreamStalker]

Ayrs saline gel with aloe for the nose blister.

Wash the mask pillows each night ... as wel as your nose.
The machine will compensate for leaks up to a point. If you want more definite answer ... post a plot of your leak from the full details report.