My mask gets all poofy

[Morningglory]

I keep having a problem where my ResMed AirFit F10 mask cushion inflates once I turn on my machine. It's really obnoxious and I'm not sure what it means or how to fix it. Any tips?

[Julie]

It's supposed to inflate - helps to center the mask where it belongs (don't overtighten trying to deflate it) and Cpap will be more effective with it inflated. It also helps keep the frame from leaving marks on your face and catches leaks.

[ChicagoGranny]

That is the way it is designed to work - "floats" on your face. The mask doesn't have to be tightened down onto the face causing discomfort and marks in the morning. Leaks are less when it is "floating" properly.

[chunkyfrog]

Think of your mask like a hovercraft.
The cushion inflates to ride gently on your face.
Without that, you could get "tracks" on your face.

[Morningglory]

Thank you!

I have looked that up now--they didn't tell me that at the DME, and clearly I'm very new to cpap. That makes a lot of sense.

How do you put on a mask whose cushions inflate? I tried putting it on and then holding the mask out to let the mask properly inflate before putting it against my face. I could still feel the cushions "breathing, though, and knew I'd never sleep like that. Is there anything I can do to keep the cushion steady?

[library lady]

I use the F10... don't hold the mask out from your face, just lie back, let go of it and it will inflate properly as long as you don't overtighten the straps. When properly inflated the mask will steady on your face. The mask will NOT inflate if you hold it away from your face, and if it doesn't have a chance to inflate, you will experience leaks and get less benefit from this therapy.

[avi123]

The mask's cushion has a "Spring Air™ Dual Wall Cushion" which does the air sealing on your facial skin. My mask works the same way. I can lie on my back and place the mask on my face without the headgear. Just the weight of the mask is enough to inflate the cushion's flap.
Avi from Morningstar.