Help picking the correct Nasal Mask

[B Tired]

I am currently using a nose pillow. I am having trouble with it hurting my nose because of my long nose and holes. I am thinking about getting a nasal mask. Can someone give me a good direction and which brand or model I should try. Thanks.

[amos]

B Tired,

You will hear this several times from folks on this forum. "The mask is a very personal choice." One size does not fit all.

I prefer the ResMed Mirage Activa LT.

amos

[Elle]

I switch to nasal for the same reason 5 years ago and have loved the Mirage Activa (then Mirage softgel) since then. It really makes a difference to try on a few because every face shape is different but I find the Mirage is very comfortable for someone who sleeps on her side and turns back and forth all night. I found that wearing it quite loose works best as well. I think everyone has their personal favourite so hopefully you have a provider that will allow you to try many on for fit.

good luck

[Pugsy]

Sorry can't help with nasal mask idea since I have never used one. I just wanted to ask you if you are trying to route the Swift LT hose over your head like it shows in the picture? If you are, you might try letting the hose hang loose instead of tying it to the head strap. I have used the Swift LT in the past and routing it overhead can put a little bit of extra tension on it which could cause a little extra discomfort. Just a thought to try while you are trying to decide on another type of mask to try.

There is also a mask trial program where you can try a mask for a week to see if you like it. $14 which covers mailing each way. They send you a bill when the mask becomes available. Then they ship it to you with a prepaid mailing sticker for sending it back. Some masks are requested more often than other so there may be a waiting list for some masks.
http://www.cpaplibrary.com/mask-trials.html

[B Tired]

Yes, I am using it over my head. I tried to let it hang loose, but I move a little too much during the night and it ends up leaking.

[B Tired]

How hard is it to get a new prescription for a different style mask?

[RomeinDNVR]

Nope, you just need to contact your DME.

I really like the Mirage FX nasal mask when my sinuses are clear.

Rome

[RandyJ]

How hard is it to get a new prescription for a different style mask?

Shouldn't be hard. Call your DME. Sometimes the DME will fax your request to the Dr and the Dr just has to sign off and fax it back. Sometimes the Dr has to actually write the prescription and give it to you. The DME can tell you how they usually communicate w/your Dr.

Another vote from me for the Mirage FX. I tried out the Mirage FX, the ComfortGel Blue and the EasyLife through the Mask Trial Program at cpaplibrary.com. The Mirage FX was the best fit for me: comfortable, no leaks, and I got great therapy with it from the first night.

[Mr Bill]

The Respironics EasyLife is what I have and I've grown quite fond of it. Once you get it adjusted, you just pull it off and slip it on. The velcro stays in place and you need not adjust it for months.

[B Tired]

I'm sorry, but what does DME stand for. I am pretty new to CPAP so there are alot of things I do not know.

[Pugsy]

I'm sorry, but what does DME stand for. I am pretty new to CPAP so there are alot of things I do not know.

DME Durable Medical Equipment

In the context that we use the term here we mean the provider/supplier of the cpap supplies. Usually the store or place of business providing the CPAP, APAP etc which are considered durable medical equipment in the medical community.

[BrandonB]

As others have said, it's a very personal choice. And do yourself the favor to take the time to find the right one as it makes life much easier. I loved my Mirage FX. Very, very comfortable, light, and smooth. Unfortunately, it was so soft, that to get it to conform to my face I had to keep it at medium tightness. That wasn't a problem for the most part, but it turned out it was pulling on the bridge of my nose and I developed sores and blisters. I got switched to the EasyLife and it's a great improvement and my nose is healing. I still would recommend the Mirage FX though.

[B Tired]

BrandonB, can you tell me more about the differences between the Mirage FX and the Easylife?

[B Tired]

What about the Comfort Gel, Mirage SoftGel, Ultra Mirage II, Profile Lite Gel. Any help, I am getting a prescription in a couple of days so I need help. I am going from the Nasal Pillow to a Nasal Mask. I am leaning towards the Profile Lite Gel, but that can change.