Need new mask advice

Chantman · Post by **Chantman** » Thu Dec 15, 2005 5:30 pm

I am an active sleeper new cpap user. I need to get another mask but am daunted by the number of choices. Could anyone recommend a type of mask or possibly a specific mask that won't make squealing noises when I move my head? I currently use a Respironics Comfort Gel wich is very comfortable but the seal is too flimsy for my movement and then the straps don't have any give either. Any opinions will be greatly appreciated.

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Thu Dec 15, 2005 6:51 pm

Chantman, there are so many options and preferences available that nobody can tell you a specific mask which would suit you.

If you have a local DME that will work with you, go and look at the masks they have in stock. See if you can try some on. See if they will let you take one home for a night's trial period (probably not).

Many of the hoseheads here like the nasal pillows: the most popular being the breeze, swift, and Aura (newly named the Headrest). You can do a search on any of those names and read lots of pros and cons.

A lot depends on your pressure, whether you mouth breath, etc.

Good luck.

Severeena · Post by **Severeena** » Fri Dec 16, 2005 1:13 am

The Hans Rudolph mask maybe just what you are needing.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Dec 16, 2005 7:59 am

My first mask was a ComfortFull that was anything but comfortable and difficult to get seated properly. Any movement such as rolling over onto my side cased the mask to dislodge and leak. My current mask is a F&P 431 full face that I've been using for several months and is much more comfortable, very quiet venting with almost no leakage problems. Based on Severeena many glowing reviews of Han Rudolph I purchased one. Besides being one of more costly masks on the market... it leaked badly around the nose bridge and the vent holes are very noisy. The head gear is an outdated rat's nest of uncomfortable velcro straps that takes three hands to untangle and impossible get properly adjusted. I contact Han Rudolph to complain... they said my pressures are too high (10/15 is too high??)and I needed a sensa seal to stop the nose area leakage. Ok... I get the nose seal and didn't help. As far as I'm concerned Han Rudolph isn't worth wasting money or time on.

peg · Post by **peg** » Fri Dec 16, 2005 8:45 am

I have to say that the Flex Fit HC407 and the Mirage Swift have worked great for me.
I have also tried the Activa, but thought that it was big and heavy. But it is one of the most popular masks.

Just my opinion............

capt · Post by **capt** » Fri Dec 16, 2005 10:18 am

I would try Resmed's Activa. It will feel heavier and bulkier than the mask you are using, but it is so comfortable and seals great. You can have the straps set so loose compared to other masks that you wonder how it keeps its seal.

ProfessorSleep · Post by **ProfessorSleep** » Fri Dec 16, 2005 11:23 am

I vote for the Swift. Aura (Headrest) is good also but I didn't find it stayed in place as well.

As for the HR, it stays put just fine. The key to getting a good seal is getting the nose part of the mask down lower on your nose than other FF masks. I agree that the straps are a mess, but once on, it does stay put! It fits rather tightly, but the fact it doesn't move or leak once positioned properly might be a good tradeoff.

mikemoran · Post by **mikemoran** » Fri Dec 16, 2005 2:35 pm

Just got my Somnatech maks last night. Only have a one time experience on it but also had one of my best nights. It is lighter than the Activa and as advertised extremely quiet. The exhaust is diffused and wasn't blowing my wife's way. The seal at the birdge of my nose was the best I have had yet. Side sleeping did not budge it and if I did feel any leaking I just sort of nuzzled my nose down into it and it stopped.

Head gear is velcro straps instead of quick releases but I can live with that. This was the first night I ever had an AHI under 3. Need more nights under my belt but am very hopeful.

Mask