Mask issues

[crookneez]

Hi all
I'm having a number of mask problems. I've been using ResMed Autoset CPAP for 13 years with Ultra Mirage mask with no problems. All of a sudden though, I start mouth breathing for no apparent reason.
I bought the Swift FX with chin strap and tried it and even though I feel as though I get a good night's sleep and my sleep data on SleepyHead look OK, I wake up feeling like crap and stay that way all day.

I reverted to my Ultra Mirage and again feel as though I sleep OK, but now I get a very sore bridge of the nose with an indentation and red mark that stays there all day. The irritation seems to be from the inner part of the cushion. I have looseded my straps to the point there is little or no tension but still wake with the bridge of the nose issue.

Resmed do a patch that fits over your nose (Gecko Nasal Pad) I think to help this but they are extremely expensive (about $30 per month).
Has anyone found a less expensive alternative to the Gecko pads to help this soreness and skin marking on the bridge of my nose?
Thank you

[moondoggy]

I would suggest that you visit http://www.padacheek.com/index.html and call Karen at the number on the page and find out if she has a product designed for your mask. She has a nose bridge protector product and a mask liner product and this may be an alternative if she has something that will fit your mask. My MedTech told me that the nasal pads don't work and in fact cause your mask to leak. Hope this helps.

[sleepnationtv]

If you are using a full face mask you may want to look at the ResMed Quattro FX. http://www.cpaplibrary.com/quattro-fx.html

The mask is specifically designed to relieve pressure off of the bridge of the nose and it does a good job. The headgear is different than the Ultra mirage because it does not have a forehead pad but it seems to stay in place just fine for most people.

Hope this helps,

Dane