"New Skin product" for lesion on nose or switch to F40 airfit

[MyIdaho]

I've used a mirage quattro mask for more than 14 years (resmed s10, 17.5 cm pressure). It is my first mask and I sleep wonderfully when wearing it. However, I do have a problem with a lesion on the bridge of my nose. Apparently, my mask puts excessive pressure on the nose bridge. I've tried adjusting the straps, cleaning cushion daily, putting a band aid over the lesion, using moleskin, and using a padda check anti leak strap to minimize leak plus equalize pressure across the entire cushion area. All to no avail. I'm tempted to try the "New Skin" product which is designed to help lesions heal plus prevent infections. Does anyone have any experience with this product on nose bridge lesions from cpap masks?

Alternatively, I could consider changing masks in the future. I have two new, unopened mirage quattro cushions that I could potentially trade with my DME or use them before switching. I mostly sleep on my side but spend part of the time on my back. I have frequent congestion plus normally breath through my mouth so a full face mask is needed. I'm interested in the F40 based on the many positive reviews. It allow my nose bridge to completely heal and stay healed since there would no longer be applied pressure every night. Some reviewers suggest that F40 has leaking issues with high pressure (my setting is 17.5 cm) and back sleeping. Are these common issues? Is it possible to pick up a F40 with trial period? My insurance is Medicare plus Aetna Plan G supplement. I will need to use a DME. Thank you!

[Mijjil]

I wear the Resmed Airfit F40 and have low leaks, but at only APAP 11-15 cmH₂O. If you are looking for an under-nose-over-mouth hybrid full-face mask, there are others that include rigid plastic in their cushion, unlike the F40 which is entirely soft silicone, e.g. the Fisher & Paykel Evora and the Philips Respironics Amara View.

[ChicagoGranny]

1. Switching to an under-the-nose FFM is an option. I have used the ResMed F30i for years.

2. New Skin is excellent and for use until healing is complete.

3. The Gecko Gel Nasal Pad is good for long-term use on the nasal bridge. They last longer than ResMed states - https://directhomemedical.com/products/ ... -nasal-pad Price shop, I gave you a link that hasn't been price shopped.

If you want to use the pad and New Skin until the lesion is healed, make sure it has completely dried before putting the pad/mask on for the night.

[MyIdaho]

Mijji,

Thanks for the mask recommendation! I do need a mask that can handle higher pressures and after some research, I'm leaning toward the F & P Evora FF mask. My DME sells this mask but it may need to come from a warehouse 300 miles away. Hopefully I can get a fitting locally or purchase the fit pack.

Chicago Granny,

Thank for your post, you're always very helpful! I'm contacting my DME first thing tomorrow, hopefully I can try the new mask early this week. Thanks for the recommendation on New Skin, liquid bandage. My son has used it many times over the years and also recommends. My pharmacist thought it might work for a cpap lesion but was concerned about potentially getting NS in the eyes. She recommended trying vitamin E after the switch to the new mask which eliminates additional insult to the nose bridge and also helps improve healing. I will try the Gecko gel nasal pad as I will use the Quattro as my back up mask.

I've enjoyed using my Mirage Quattro for 14 years. I slept like a baby and leaks were well controlled. But, red cpap nose has gotten worse, time for a new solution.

Best,
Rick

[C-Loh]

Also consider hydrocolloid tape. I got a sore on my septum (ironically, perhaps) when I was trying out an F40 mask. Rubbed raw (somehow) by the little strip of silicone between the nostril holes. Hydrocolloid tape worked really well. Easy to cut to size, absorbs any grossness that comes from the sore, fairly well waterproof, etc. Now, whenever I wear that F40, i just cut a short narrow strip and stick it on my septum, letting it turn the corner and come down toward my upper lip a few millimeters. Works like a charm.

In addition to the sore it gave my poor, delicate nose, I've found the F40 to be kind of "fussy". For me, really easy to get a small leak on either the top or bottom of either cheek. The trick for me has been to get the nostril holes lined up properly and then let the machine "inflate" the cushion. Like I said, kind of fussy, but definitely wearable. Compared to a non-hybrid full face mask, like the F20, I LOVE the fact that I can scratch my nose with the F40 on. Seems with old man nose hairs and whatnot, the air turbulence inside my F20 has me needing to undo a lower strap and reach in for a scratch a couple times a night. MUCH easier with the F40.

Just be careful to tighten the mask IN toward your face and not UP into your nose, and you should be good.

Cheers,
C-Loh