Pillow v. Full Face????

[wakemeupb4yougogo]

I am getting fitted tonight . . . again. This is my third time trying to make CPAP work for me. I just haven't been able to get comfortable. The first time was approx. 6 years ago, the last time was approx. 2 years ago. Perhaps, the third time is the charm! This site has helped. I didn't realize so many people had so many probelms and issues trying to adjust. So here I go again!

I know it's a very individual thing, but are more users happiest with Nose Pillows or Full Face masks?

Thanks everyone!

[Max250]

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[djr1215]

I am getting fitted tonight . . . again. This is my third time trying to make CPAP work for me. I just haven't been able to get comfortable. The first time was approx. 6 years ago, the last time was approx. 2 years ago. Perhaps, the third time is the charm! This site has helped. I didn't realize so many people had so many probelms and issues trying to adjust. So here I go again!

I know it's a very individual thing, but are more users happiest with Nose Pillows or Full Face masks?

Thanks everyone!

Are you a mouth breather? If so, is it important that you breathe through your mouth (deviated septum), or just something you've gotten use to doing (you can tape up your mouth without any adverse effects)?

The answer with that will make a difference in which mask you should get. For instance, I have a severely deviated septum, so I have to have a full-face mask of some kind or I don't breathe. (in my sleep study my O2 sats went down to 72%) If that's not your problem, then pillows might work for you. You'll probably have to try out several, actually sleeping a few nights with each one. I've been on CPAP only for a month and I'm trying my 4th mask. The last one was okay but I'm hoping for better than okay.

Good luck.

[Janknitz]

It would help if you could give us some insight about why your previous tries were "no go".

Was it discomfort from the mask? If so, what kinds of masks did you try? And what exactly made you uncomfortable? Was it any of these reasons:
1. Too tight
2. Too loose
3. Too leaky
4. Made your nose sore
5. Couldn't handle the blast of air in your face
6. Couldn't breathe out against the pressure
7. Claustrophobia from the mask
8. Anything else????

We can help you once we have a better idea.

MOST people can use a nasal mask or nasal pillows successfully, even if you think you are a dedicated mouth breather. These masks seal better and are more comfortable in most cases than a full face mask. Sometimes you have to use something like a chin strap or a small piece of tape to keep your mouth from opening with a nasal mask or nasal pillows, but there is usually a solution if you are having a problem. Some of the nasal pillow masks are so lightweight and unobtrusive that you will be amazed at how comfortable they are.


The MOST important thing is to find a medical equipment provider who will work with you and make sure that you have the right mask. This may mean trying many masks—some of us went through as many as 8 or more before finding the right mask.

Make sure you educate yourself about machines and what to ask for before you go to the DME (Durable Medical Equipment Provider) because it’s crucial you get the right machine as well. Click on the lightbulb in the mast head of this page for lots of info that will help you decide. Be sure you understand what a “data capable autopap machine” is and be sure you ask for one.

Good luck!

[brazospearl]

Welcome to the forum! The best mask is the one that does the best job with the fewest problems. The trick, of course, is finding the one that gets the job done. Finding the perfect mask is like finding the perfect shoes; what works for one might not work for the next, and you'll probably have to try on lots of shoes to get the best. Same thing with masks. Be sure you try them on lying down and with a machine on with your settings, preferably your own machine if possible. Let us know how things go!

[BigNortherner]

I'll briefly comment that the first essential for nose/nostril interface is free flow through nose throughout the night.

Generally nose breathing is better if you can do it easily as the nose moisturizes the air much better than mouth.

[sleepmba]

Some excellent points made so far...

From my experience with titrations, most patients end up with nasal masks or nasal pillows. However, there are some good FF candidates out there too! You are doing the right thing by the "try, try again" technique, asking questions, and reading on the internet. Check out my blog shown at the bottom of this post. You may find some helpful info there! Good Luck and let us know how it goes.