Need opinions for the next few months

General Discussion on any topic relating to CPAP and/or Sleep Apnea.
rlyndecker
Posts: 20
Joined: Tue Nov 22, 2011 9:09 pm

Need opinions for the next few months

Post by rlyndecker » Tue Jan 03, 2012 12:54 am

The mask I am using it okay, my problem with it, is it is still too big. Right now most of the time I feel air coming out of the sides into my eyes depending on how I readjust it. Every once in a while I readjust it so badly that it comes out and bothers the side AND my mouth. I keep reading about all these things that you can buy but what is really "needed"? I live in California, in the central Valley (so not much moisture/rain/very dusty etc.) I have Asthma & can't stand having the full face mask (well the one time I tried it) I don't have anything extra, I just have the mask, the machine with the humidifier & the one hose. My DME said I can't get anything else for a while due to insurance.

Does anyone have suggestions on something I can make or purchase from another place besides the DME that will help me with my CPAP experience? Like I said, the main concern is the air blowing into my eyes/mouth. I usually can manage 3-5 hours with it but would like more & would like to make this more comfortable overall. So ANY suggestions (not just suggestions on the air) please. I am so confused as to what I should buy/make & what is a waste of my money (i.e. nose pads?, fabric for over the straps?, hose cover? etc.)

THANK YOU!

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Additional Comments: Mask is petitie; no idea about software.

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Elle
Posts: 1229
Joined: Fri Nov 17, 2006 9:47 pm
Location: Canada

Re: Need opinions for the next few months

Post by Elle » Tue Jan 03, 2012 1:38 am

It is the DME's job to fit you for a proper mask. You should call them and let them know your sleep apnea is not being treated because of a leaky mask. They should have let you know how important it was to have a properly fitted mask. If it has been too long they won't likely switch it now but it is worth letting them know you are struggling. If they won't let you buy one (although I don't see why not if you are willing to pay) then they should at least let you try some on (lying down with the cpap on) until you get one that works.

Good luck.

Mary Z
Posts: 1493
Joined: Wed Oct 28, 2009 9:55 am

Re: Need opinions for the next few months

Post by Mary Z » Tue Jan 03, 2012 6:50 am

Google RemZzzs, Pad-a-Cheek, and Quietus mask liners. You can also make a seal with Macks SIlicone Ear Plugs. Roll into a thin string about the size of a pencil and apply to the edge of the mask. You have to redo daily, but I remove the silicone in the morning, roll into a ball and put in airtight container. Good luck.

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Mask: Wisp Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear - Fit Pack
Additional Comments: PR System One Remstar BiPap Auto AS Advanced.
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cflame1
Posts: 3312
Joined: Sat Mar 11, 2006 6:55 am
Location: expat Canadian in Kentucky

Re: Need opinions for the next few months

Post by cflame1 » Tue Jan 03, 2012 7:01 am

If you're doing an outright purchase (without insurance), you'll find that the prices online are much better than the prices at your DME (usually). The DME's will part out a mask (charge for every part) and some masks that I've purchased via the DME have come out to $400 vs $100 online.