So I've been doing pretty good getting used to using my machine and mask, but what's happening is I'm waking up in the middle of the night and taking off my mask because I guess (sometimes awake sort of, sometimes not) I'm getting annoyed because of leaks around my nose, I have a S mask and have the straps tight and always make sure the seal is good when I first go to sleep. I'm used to sleeping with it on, and used to not being able to be on my stomach, but this leak stuff drives me nuts, and then I end up with out it on for half the night.
Any suggestions? I know someone said something about using a cream or something to help keep the seal, but I can't seem to find the information, should I go to a large mask even though I have a small nose and features?
Thank you!
Need Help with a Leaky Mask!
Re: Need Help with a Leaky Mask!
Everyone will tell you something different that works for them. It it were me, I would try a "nasal pillow" type mask and resolve to tape my mouth shut if I mouth breathe. I think everyone here is looking for the perfect mask! Keep trying, and good luck!
Georgio
Georgio
DreamStation 2, Oscar
Resmed AirFit P30i Nasal Mask
Resmed AirFit P30i Nasal Mask
Re: Need Help with a Leaky Mask!
I have continuous leak problems also, and sometimes go nuts. I've tried various resolutions through these various threads, and whilst you can perhaps improve this, I've never really eliminated the problem. Probably like yourself, I apparently have a very small head, and very fine features. But my nose is also longish, which makes mask fitting a nightmare. I'm continually re-sealing through the night in several spots, and my leak numbers are never low. However, keep in mind that the results are what matters - if your AHI is low (and despite the leak, mine is), and if you feel really well, then I'd ignore the leaks. I've also noted I get better results with the Mirage Activa (0.4) mask than with the Swift (1., although sadly enough I prefer the Swift. And the leak numbers are the same for both. Go figure.
I've not as much experience here as some of the others, but I'd check your results, it may be that the leaks are more or less tolerable if they are good?
Also, it should be borne in mind that if you start each morning by lightly cleaning at least just the outside of the mask where it contacts your face, and each evening with a "squeaky" clean face, it won't hurt either. No moisturiser, no products of any kind other than a drying cleanser (not the moisturising kind.
Good luck.
I've not as much experience here as some of the others, but I'd check your results, it may be that the leaks are more or less tolerable if they are good?
Also, it should be borne in mind that if you start each morning by lightly cleaning at least just the outside of the mask where it contacts your face, and each evening with a "squeaky" clean face, it won't hurt either. No moisturiser, no products of any kind other than a drying cleanser (not the moisturising kind.
Good luck.
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Re: Need Help with a Leaky Mask!
FF masks have more facial real estate to seal. The mask needs to be squeaky clean and so does your face. You must not over tighten or under tighten the straps. Make sure the lower strap does not ride on the back of your neck but rather up on your skull instead. Make sure your hose is not tugging on your mask while you sleep. If none of that works then try a different size mask or a different mask altogether.jenfa79 wrote:So I've been doing pretty good getting used to using my machine and mask, but what's happening is I'm waking up in the middle of the night and taking off my mask because I guess (sometimes awake sort of, sometimes not) I'm getting annoyed because of leaks around my nose, I have a S mask and have the straps tight and always make sure the seal is good when I first go to sleep. I'm used to sleeping with it on, and used to not being able to be on my stomach, but this leak stuff drives me nuts, and then I end up with out it on for half the night.
Any suggestions? I know someone said something about using a cream or something to help keep the seal, but I can't seem to find the information, should I go to a large mask even though I have a small nose and features?
Thank you!
Finding the right mask and getting it all adjusted correctly is the hardest part of the treatment. Good luck and not give up!
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Re: Need Help with a Leaky Mask!
Hi all,
I'm new to wearing a Cpap, and I'm having the same problem. I use nasal pillows nightly and a full mask on occassion. My nasal passages are small, so sometimes the nasal pillows slip out at night and I have to wake up to put them back in.
I think I wear my mask tight enough without being too loose, but both masks still leak; the nasal pillows also make the inside of my nose a bit sore. The technician gave me a gel to use for the soreness, but finding the right mask may be harder than I first thought.
Michelle
Cpapped xxx
I'm new to wearing a Cpap, and I'm having the same problem. I use nasal pillows nightly and a full mask on occassion. My nasal passages are small, so sometimes the nasal pillows slip out at night and I have to wake up to put them back in.
I think I wear my mask tight enough without being too loose, but both masks still leak; the nasal pillows also make the inside of my nose a bit sore. The technician gave me a gel to use for the soreness, but finding the right mask may be harder than I first thought.
Michelle
Cpapped xxx
Re: Need Help with a Leaky Mask!
DreamStalker wrote:FF masks have more facial real estate to seal. The mask needs to be squeaky clean and so does your face. You must not over tighten or under tighten the straps. Make sure the lower strap does not ride on the back of your neck but rather up on your skull instead. Make sure your hose is not tugging on your mask while you sleep. If none of that works then try a different size mask or a different mask altogether.jenfa79 wrote:So I've been doing pretty good getting used to using my machine and mask, but what's happening is I'm waking up in the middle of the night and taking off my mask because I guess (sometimes awake sort of, sometimes not) I'm getting annoyed because of leaks around my nose, I have a S mask and have the straps tight and always make sure the seal is good when I first go to sleep. I'm used to sleeping with it on, and used to not being able to be on my stomach, but this leak stuff drives me nuts, and then I end up with out it on for half the night.
Any suggestions? I know someone said something about using a cream or something to help keep the seal, but I can't seem to find the information, should I go to a large mask even though I have a small nose and features?
Thank you!
Finding the right mask and getting it all adjusted correctly is the hardest part of the treatment. Good luck and not give up!
I like that, "facial real estate"! I'm looking for a mask that is more accommodating to hills and valleys rather than flatland : )