New user (1 month)

[daddyp]

Hey guys!!

I have had my machine for about a month and I haven't decided on what I think. The first couple weeks were ok( a little nose pain). However, now I cannot get the mask to seal correctly and I just can't breathe. I feel like I slept two hours last night. Can anyone help me?

[pootsie]

It may be helpful if you post your pressure settings.

Have you tried the different sized pillows? And remember, the Swift FX rests on the outside of the nostrils, not stuffed up in there.

Check out this link:
http://maskarrayed.wordpress.com/swift- ... ing-guide/

EDIT: I just realized we have the exact same equipment. Have you used the ramp setting to help ease into use? I have also found that in the beginning, it really helped being awake with the machine on and just concentrating on slow deep breaths (almost like meditating).

[123.Shawn T.W.]

Have you cleaned the pillows?

Have you inspected the pillows for tares?

My wife uses the same mask, and never cleans them, I've cleaned it twice ... And she is still on the original pillows, over 10 months! Some people wear them out in two weeks!

The head gear can also stretch, and I noticed when I used mine that the little rubber piece that goes over the top of your head can work loose from the little cogs ...

[Tino2You]

Hi Daddyp

I see we have the same equipment. I've been using mine for over a year now. There was a lot of struggles at first just as you are seeing. The key to the swift FX is that tight is not right

You should be able to easily slide a finger under the top strap and the side straps should never pull at your nose. If you look in the mirror with the mask on and you look like you have a pig nose, it it too tight.

I adjusted my strap so it slides on my face and I have never adjusted it since. Most people use a medium cushion (I do). You should have received three cushions in your stater pack. If you are using the medium, try to go to the large. Finally, when you put your mask on at night, with your machine on, pull the mask from your nose a half inch or so and then let it settle back down into your nares.

Let us know how it goes.
-tino

[daddyp]

Wow!! thank you for all the quick responses. I noticed a difference when we remembered to wash the pillows lol!! The very next day is when it stopped sealing correctly. I will try some stuff and let you guys know.

[DreamDiver]

welcome, daddyp.
Leaks are the first thing to control. Leaks like you're off to a great start. Looking forward to hearing how it goes.

[123.Shawn T.W.]

Sounds like your soap you washed them in has some kind of lotion in them, or something ... Try some warm/hot water and rinse them good!

[daddyp]

That could be it. You said you never wash them? What do you guys think of the wipes I keep hearing about?

[caffeinatedcfo]

I wash my swift fx pillows with liquid Ivory Original.

[123.Shawn T.W.]

I try to wash MINE once a week ... I use the wipes inbetween, especially if I have had a slobbery drooling night (I use a ffm now)

Is it possible that there is a small tear? Or you didn't get the pillow all the way back on the mask?

Do you have a spare pillow to try?

Somewhere here there is a thread on boiling the pillows to restore them ... Also I've heard of giving them a rest, while using a spare also helps longevity ... I only used the Swift FX for about a month myself.

[SleepWellCPAP]

All great suggestions!

Don't forget to try the Lansinoh if you still have leaks.

[daddyp]

What is Lansinoh?

[caffeinatedcfo]

I think it's a brand name for an ointment that can be used in the CPAP world (1) to heal sores from mask damage and (2) help form a stronger seal on mask cushions.

[123.Shawn T.W.]

What is Lansinoh?

It's good stuff! Has many uses too!

http://www.lansinoh.com/

[Tino2You]

If you are going to use wipes and do not want to specifically get the wipes designed for CPAP, they look for Fragrance Free, Alcohol Free and Aloe Free wipes. You may have to look hard but they are out there. Alcohol will attack the silicon, aloe will act like a lubricant, and any kind of fragrance will prove too much when it is being forced up your nose.

I try to wash my equipment once a week or so (nasal pillow, tank and hose). I have a plastic storage container that I put about a cup of white vinegar and about a gallon of hot water. I let everything soak for a bit, rinse it all off with water and then refill the container with hot water and a capfull of J&J baby shampoo. Rinse well and air dry and I am good to go.

-tino