Tape Question

General Discussion on any topic relating to CPAP and/or Sleep Apnea.
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rosiefrosie
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Tape Question

Post by rosiefrosie » Fri Jun 12, 2009 3:36 pm

I have noticed since my pressure has been between 10-11, that I have some mouth leaks. I taped my mouth for the first time last night using Nexcare gentle paper tape, which worked fine, but was a little rough on my skin. What is the best and gentlest tape to use?

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BleepingBeauty
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Re: Tape Question

Post by BleepingBeauty » Fri Jun 12, 2009 3:39 pm

rosiefrosie wrote:I have noticed since my pressure has been between 10-11, that I have some mouth leaks. I taped my mouth for the first time last night using Nexcare gentle paper tape, which worked fine, but was a little rough on my skin. What is the best and gentlest tape to use?
People here seem to favor the blue gentle-release painters tape, #2080. Any hardware store (or department) should have it.
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plr66
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Re: Tape Question

Post by plr66 » Fri Jun 12, 2009 4:00 pm

As BB said above. WalMart is probably cheaper than most hardware stores. I use 2" wide Scotch brand blue painters tape for delicate surfaces. Many use 3M brand. You still need to be very careful with removal. There have been a number of recent threads on how to do that, though I don't have time to research it for you just now.
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Sleepdeprived
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Re: Tape Question

Post by Sleepdeprived » Fri Jun 12, 2009 4:06 pm

rosiefrosie wrote:I have noticed since my pressure has been between 10-11, that I have some mouth leaks. I taped my mouth for the first time last night using Nexcare gentle paper tape, which worked fine, but was a little rough on my skin. What is the best and gentlest tape to use?
I find poligrip strips a superior option to taping

It stops my mouth leaking and allows me if needed to open my mouth

sleepdeprived

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anotherRandy
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Re: Tape Question

Post by anotherRandy » Fri Jun 12, 2009 4:07 pm

The search function is your friend.

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Gerald
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Re: Tape Question

Post by Gerald » Fri Jun 12, 2009 4:36 pm

Rosie.....

I experimented with medical tape....and found it to be uncomfortable.

Following is part of a post that I did for someone else (reprint).

1. When applying, use a piece about 10" long and fold the ends about 1/2" to form removal handles.
2. Apply the tape at the mouth area first....then soooth the flaps against each cheek. The seal around the mouth works better this way.
3. Use 2" 3M #2080 Delicate Release Painter's Tape available at Lowe's paint dept.
4. When removing, pull parallel to your face....not at 90-degrees to your face. No pain removing it parallel.
5. Consider assisting the gentle adhesive by applying a band made from panty-hose-TIGHTS over the tape and around the back of your head. Attach the 2nd leg-band to the first just ahead of each ear
and run it over the top of your head. This helps keep the tights in position. The added mild pressure to the top of the tape helps prevent blow-outs.
6. Finally, you might consider using Lansenoh Lanolin on your nares to help seal (if you're using nasal pillows). Gob it on....works great...seals wonderfully.

Gerald

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rosiefrosie
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Re: Tape Question

Post by rosiefrosie » Fri Jun 12, 2009 5:13 pm

Thank-you all for your suggestions. I will be buying the blue painter's tape and start from there. Again thank-you.

Rosie

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Catnap
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Re: Tape Question

Post by Catnap » Fri Jun 12, 2009 5:42 pm

Gerald wrote:Rosie.....
1. When applying, use a piece about 10" long and fold the ends about 1/2" to form removal handles.
Gerald
Ten inches long! That would practically cover my mouth from ear to ear. I use two pieces, each about 3/4 to 1 inch long and about 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide, and make an X over my mouth. It keeps my mouth closed and barely takes anything to remove in the morning (I do use the 3M painter's tape).

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rosiefrosie
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Re: Tape Question

Post by rosiefrosie » Fri Jun 12, 2009 6:44 pm

LOL! I think 10 inches long would cover me from ear to ear also. I know I have a big mouth, but not that big.

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Gerald
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Re: Tape Question

Post by Gerald » Fri Jun 12, 2009 6:50 pm

Catnap.....

For the life of me, I can't see how your "X-marks-the-spot" system can work. Looks to me like you'd have leaks everywhere. I grew up in a paint & body shop....and I've worked with all kinds of seals....but, I just can't see how your little bitty pieces of tape would work.

But if it works for you, great.

Me....I want to tape the hell out of it....and forget it. I ain't timid about the tape.

Gerald

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bdp522
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Re: Tape Question

Post by bdp522 » Fri Jun 12, 2009 6:54 pm

I use gentle paper tape for delicate skin. I buy it by the box at a medical supply store. A box lasts me more than a year and costs about $10.
I also use a thin coat of milk of magnesia on the area around my mouth before taping. I let it dry for a minute, then wipe off any excess with a tissue. The M O M helps protect the skin. I have had NO irritation from the tape since I started this routine.

I also use Roosters method of taping found here;
viewtopic.php?t=9653

Brenda

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Catnap
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Re: Tape Question

Post by Catnap » Fri Jun 12, 2009 7:56 pm

Gerald wrote:Catnap.....

For the life of me, I can't see how your "X-marks-the-spot" system can work. Looks to me like you'd have leaks everywhere. I grew up in a paint & body shop....and I've worked with all kinds of seals....but, I just can't see how your little bitty pieces of tape would work.

But if it works for you, great.

Me....I want to tape the hell out of it....and forget it. I ain't timid about the tape.

Gerald
I think it works for two reasons: First of all, the X configuration covers the middle and "props" the sides from top and bottom enough to keep the lips closed (I have a relatively small mouth). Secondly, I don't have a major problem with mouth breathing, so it's just enough of a reminder to keep everything closed. If I really wanted to, I could blow air out through the far sides of my mouth -- I know this because I can move the edges of my lips just enough to growl at my dogs if they start roaming around and bugging me at night

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Gerald
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Re: Tape Question

Post by Gerald » Fri Jun 12, 2009 8:20 pm

Well......

My style of tape application certainly limits my ability to growl. About all I can do is "hum"....and our combo-doggie (half Lab, half Belgian Malnois) doesn't pay any attention to that.

Gerald

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wlenz
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Re: Tape Question

Post by wlenz » Fri Jun 12, 2009 8:59 pm

If removing the tape becomes a problem, someone on this forum mentioned holding a warm, moist face cloth against the ta ape to soften the adhesive. Another member wore the tape into the shower and the warm steamy water loosened the tape.
I mentioned mouth taping to the sleep doctor a few weeks ago. He could care less. This is the place to get tried and tested hints from users. Ya got to love this place.
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Marietjie
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Re: Tape Question

Post by Marietjie » Fri Jun 12, 2009 10:21 pm

Rosiefrosie - I read in another post that if you use tape, you should roll your lips to the inside before applying tape. Hope you come right
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