Cushion vs. nasal pillow

[akeegan]

I have used a ResMed Activa (now Activa LT) mask for years. I am a very active, side sleeper. I was told when I started CPAP that this was the best mask for me based on my sleeping habits. With deference to my DME at the time, they did let me try different masks. I have no complaints of leaks or comfort with the Activa.

I am interested in the trying a nasal pillow for one reason: it would let me watch TV with the mask on. Do you think I would have mask issues given that I tend to flip side-to-side when I sleep? I don't want to mess with something that works.

Thanks,
Al

[JohnBFisher]

Depends on if you need glasses when you watch TV!

I used nasal pillows for years without any problem. I slept on my side all the time with them. If the head gear is secure you should not have any problems. Of course, I could not use them and watch TV at the same time (due to my need to have glasses).

[akeegan]

JohnB,

Ah...let me clarify my requirements. I wear glasses. I assumed nasal pillows would accommodate them. What are your recommendations?

Al

[Paulrp]

I use a Respironics OptiLife Nasal Pillow mask, it will allow you to wear glasses while it is on. I also use Performance Tubing as the stiffer type causes mer leaks when moving around.

Good Luck, Paul

[rosiefrosie]

I use the mirage swift LT for her nasal pillows, wear glasses and watch TV with my mask on.

rosie

[JohnBFisher]

... let me clarify my requirements. I wear glasses. I assumed nasal pillows would accommodate them. What are your recommendations? ...

As you can see, it depends on the mask and the headgear. Of course, anything that does not cover the bridge of the nose will make it easier to use glasses. So, something like this won't work:

https://www.cpap.com/productpage/purita ... rface.html

But as RosieFrosie notes, something like the Swift will work:

https://www.cpap.com/productpage/resmed ... dgear.html

My previous nasal pillow setup was more like the first unit than the second. So, as long as you keep the bridge of the nose clear you should be fine. I loved nasal pillows because it kept more off my face than a nasal mask or a full face mask. Unfortunately, my pressure needs now seem to require the Quattro FFM.

[akeegan]

So the more more pressure the less pillows are effective? I'm running about 10.0 now.

Al

[sleeplessBoston]

I use the mirage swift LT for her nasal pillows and my pressure is also at 10.0 I wear reading glasses using the pillows & sleep on my side. If you can adjust to the pillows you will find they are must less invasive on the face than other masks. I can't imagine switching to anything else.

[Jersey Girl]

Dear Al,

I have a Swift LT for her and a Comfort Gel Nasal Mask. I have found some difficulty, however, adjusting to nasal pillows - I find that I must NOT tighten my straps too tight - they have to be loose - just tight enough to make a seal and that I need to sort of angle the nasal pillows just right or I feel as though I can't get enough air. Seems to be more touchy with positioning than my nasal mask. However, I can easily watch tv (or read a book with my glasses on) and turn on my side, in fact, if and when I get it positioned correctly, it almost feels as though I barely am wearing any mask at all!

For some reason, I also just find it easier to fall asleep with air swirling all around my nose, rather than going up my nose. I guess it's a personal preference and we are all different.

Good luck and let us know what you choose!

Best wishes,

Debby (Jersey Girl)

[JohnBFisher]

So the more more pressure the less pillows are effective? I'm running about 10.0 now. ...

You'll be fine. To help control my central apneas, my ASV unit boosts the pressure upto 23cm H2O at times. That blows most masks straight off my face. 10cm H20 will be no problem at all.

[sleeplessinaz]

I cannot say enough great things about my SWIFT LT ( for her version). The nasal pillows are the most comfortable that you can get right now. I am strictly a side sleeper and move from one side to the other alot--due to hip pain, this mask is so great for side sleepers. It is easy to take off just the pillow part and wash them up for the next night. I used to use the Comfort Gel and the Opti Life and I think the Swift LT is the best right now. Less is better I think.I am going to try the Swift FX soon as it looks like it might be even better~~~

Carrie