Masks being used with High Pressure

[spartancal]

My sleep study indicated that the correct CPAP pressure for me is 17 cm H20. I'm told that is a very high setting. I would like to hear from other patients with high pressure setting to see what masks works best. I know a lot depends upon your facial features but I would like to hear what is being used successfully.


PS. I had a stuffy nose the night of my titration ( the technician wrote it down on my sleep study). Could that have adversely affected the pressure required?

If so, should I have another sleep study or use my S9 and do it myself. If someone could point to a link which explains how to do this, I would greatly appreciate it.

[DaveMunson]

I believe the Activa LT to be the best mask for high pressures.

Did the pressure clear up your sinus after short while? And yes, stuffed up will mess up your breathing. So will a cold.

See how you react with the pressure, mask and gear before getting another sleep study. Look over the reports your machine gives. If it is an auto and you spend all night at lower pressures, that is an indication that your pressure is not right and may be too high.

[Max250]

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[LaCansada]

Many people seem to have a back-up full face mask for times when they are sick. Even if this is not ideal for you, it is better than going without or trying to force air into your nostrils when they are swollen and you can't breath. I am currently using the Swift LT for her and then the Respironics LifeFit FFM when I need this.

[rubymom]

My pressure is generally around 15. I was titrated at 20. I use the Mirage Liberty Mask and it works pretty well for me. I started with a Fisher and Paykel full face mask but didn't like my nose being closed in. Nevertheless, I'm hoping to obtain a regular FFM for when I get a cold. I haven't had one (knock wood) since starting treatment more than a year ago, but I have had a night or two with a little bit of a runny nose and it wasn't pretty.

Good luck to you!!

[KatieW]

This site was prepared by one of our forum members who has an S9. You'll find useful information here:

http://www.osahelp.com/

[Madalot]

Well, my F&P 431 works pretty well for me. My minimum pressure is 14 and according to the report, my machine kicks up to almost 23 at any given point, but I'm usually sound asleep when this happens. While it leaks some, it seems to do pretty well at 17-20, which I frequently am aware of.

[rlamoreaux]

Iim going to go with your advice. I currently have a Fulllife mask and some nights I just can not stop the leaks. It's fine for lower pressures but not for 17. I ordered a F&S 431 today from this forums host. Is there any major difference between the 431 and the 432?

[Madalot]

Iim going to go with your advice. I currently have a Fulllife mask and some nights I just can not stop the leaks. It's fine for lower pressures but not for 17. I ordered a F&S 431 today from this forums host. Is there any major difference between the 431 and the 432?

Oh my -- please don't be upset with me if it doesn't work for you! I'd hate to feel responsible if you don't like it --

I have both a 431 and 432. For me, the 432 pinched my face horribly and left blisters after only one night! I tried taking the foam out and just using it like my 431, but the silicone seal didn't fit right without the foam?????

I have tried almost every full face mask there is and I have ALWAYS gone back to my 431. I have a respironics comfort gel -- brand spanking new. I used it for approximately 3 hours and woke my husband up and asked him to switch me back to my trusty 431.

I'm not saying it doesn't leak -- it does, but the leak rate is manageable and my doctor hasn't expressed any concern over the numbers. My RT told me that as long as my leak rate is in the 30's (and not into the 60's or above), it's acceptable. I "adjust" it until I see the rate stay in the 30's, then I turn over and go to sleep (one of the benefits of a ventilator because of the massive information screen).

Good luck. I'll cross my fingers that you like the 431.

[Wulfman]

ResMed Ultra Mirage Full Face (UMFF).


Den

[TXStarfish]

I have a BIPap with pressures set 17-22 and I use the Mirage Quattro full face mask. As long as I wash my face at bedtime and wipe down the mask and seal with a baby wipe, I have very few problems with leaks. BUT, like everyone said, you HAVE to make sure you find the right fit/size mask. I am a large person so was quite shocked to find I have "small" facial features and use a size small mask!! Now, if I get a leak or face burp, it is because I mooshed it into my pillow and I just have to readjust it quickly.

Best wishes to you!

[Madalot]

As long as I wash my face at bedtime and wipe down the mask and seal with a baby wipe, I have very few problems with leaks.

I wanted to stress that this is very important. I disinfect my mask every morning with a cleaner designed for cpap masks (I just keep a roll of paper towels on my nightstand). I also wipe the mask and seal down again with a wipe (also designed for masks). I also thoroughly clean my face, taking special care to clean the areas where the mask and seal are on my face.

Doing all of this has made a huge difference.