Need Help with Mask Condensation (no hose rainout)

[WearyOne]

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Hi all, I have been on CPAP therapy since 2007. Last year, I started getting water droplets in my mask along with dampness where I have to wipe the mask out a few times a night. The heated hose is always completely dry. When it started, I had not changed anything...masks, room temp, CPAP settings, nothing. So it baffles me what started it. I am still having the problem every single night. I have tried changing heated hose temp and humidity settings to no avail. I recently changed to the AirFit F40 and I have the same problem with this one. If I drop down the humidity too much, I get a horrible dry mouth. Room temp is normally around 69-70. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

[Nocibur]

... I have been on CPAP therapy since 2007.

Yikes! I've been 9 characters since then!

I had a similar problem with the water dispenser in my side-by-side refrigerator-- everything froze because one micro-atmosphere invaded the other.

Anyway, take the cushion

mask.jpg (167.8 KiB) Viewed 545 times

and cover it with thick flannel, tiny-bubble bubblewrap or anything that will provide insulation. Cut out holes and slots for hose and attachment protrusions. Use double-sided tape or some adhesive to hold in place if necessary.

'Member the old hose-cozies? Same idea.

[WearyOne]

... I have been on CPAP therapy since 2007.

Yikes! I've been 9 characters since then!

I had a similar problem with the water dispenser in my side-by-side refrigerator-- everything froze because one micro-atmosphere invaded the other.

Anyway, take the cushion

mask.jpg

and cover it with thick flannel, tiny-bubble bubblewrap or anything that will provide insulation. Cut out holes and slots for hose and attachment protrusions. Use double-sided tape or some adhesive to hold in place if necessary.

'Member the old hose-cozies? Same idea.

I was trying to think of a way to cover it, but didn't want to use glue...have no idea why I didn't think of double-sided tape! Bubblewrap sounds interesting, but wonder if it would start popping during the night since I sleep on my side...haha! I will be trying your suggesting tonight...THANK YOU!

Yep, I remember the old hose cozies. I also remember ordering my first heated hose from a company not in the US where I am because no one here sold them yet.

[mlmollenkamp]

Have you used a hose cozy on the leader hose? I always had rainout problems with leader hose masks. You can use a regular one, but start it at the mask, some of the heated hose near the machine will be left uncovered, that won't matter. I used to get short hose cozies that covered just the leader hose as well.

I too stated around 2007, with a Respironics M series machine. I purchased my first heated hose from an Australian company, really expensive with shipping etc. After that I started making my own and often heated the leader hose as well. I use the 30i series masks not and haven't had problems with the leaders down the sides of my face, probably because my body heat keeps them warm.

[WearyOne]

Have you used a hose cozy on the leader hose? I always had rainout problems with leader hose masks. You can use a regular one, but start it at the mask, some of the heated hose near the machine will be left uncovered, that won't matter. I used to get short hose cozies that covered just the leader hose as well.

I too stated around 2007, with a Respironics M series machine. I purchased my first heated hose from an Australian company, really expensive with shipping etc. After that I started making my own and often heated the leader hose as well. I use the 30i series masks not and haven't had problems with the leaders down the sides of my face, probably because my body heat keeps them warm.

It happens with masks that I've recently tried that don't have leader hoses, so I figured it wouldn't help with this one. But I do have some old hose covers that I made before I started using heated hoses, so I'll definitely give it a try. Thanks for the suggestion!

Now that you mention it, I remember that a company in Australia is where I got my first heated hose too. And I also started on a Respironics M series.

Oh, and an unrelated question. I have never used a mask where the tube is connected on top of the head, but have been looking into looking into the X30i. What are your thoughts on what you're using, the 30i series, related to the tube at the top, noise, and sleeping on your side where one of the air tubes is probably getting blocked? Thanks!

[mlmollenkamp]

I like the top feed masks, but they don't work as well without a hose hanger. I use a piece of elastic shoe lace connected to a eye hook in the ceiling. I regularly use both p30i and n30i (AirTouch version) masks, changing back and forth. I also have an f30i hybrid full face that I use for the occasional night I can't keep my mouth shut. I've used the Respironics Dreamwear equivalents. They have all worked pretty well for me. I prefer the Respironics headgear and use it on the ResMed (n30i & p30i) nasal masks. But the Resmed mask vents are much better than the Respironics, and the Resmed accordion tubes work better for me.

I've not tried the X30i, its interesting, probably better than the f30i if you need different size mouth vs nose cushions. The X30i is pretty expensive, I buy all but the n30i masks out of pocket so I won't be trying it out. I would try it if I needed a full face more often, both the F30i or the Respironics Dreamwear full face are hard for me to get a seal.

You might consider trying the F30i though, its often sold at a discount. If it fits its a nice mask, very quiet and top tube. I'd get the AirTouch rather than the AirFit though, its got a better vent and is more comfortable for me.

[WearyOne]

Thanks for all the great information. Yeah, the X30i is expensive, one I couldn't afford if I was paying out of pocket. But I just started with a new sleep doc (hadn't been to one for eight years), so I will be able to get a prescription that I can use at a local DME provider and turn stuff into insurance now. The AirTouch F30i you mentioned does look good. I don't have a hose hanger, but I just ordered one. Seems everything I have looked at today recommends the top-feed masks for side sleepers, and I am definitely a side sleeper.