Choosing a new mask type

[zoomama1]

I presently wear a Resmed Mirage Quattro size small and x-small (I have two) using a Resmed Escape II set on 9 -- well, I'm in the process of upping it a bit because I've gained some weight and am finding that I'm having more obstruction lately.

I am a mouth breather, big time. So not only am I using the FF mask, I wear a large chin strap. I've tried Remzzzs, and I've made my own liners, which work to reduce the leaks. But I still have some leaks. I also get all these facial lines from these bizillion straps. There's a permanent scar on the bridge of my nose from these masks.

I want to try another mask. I'm tired of all this STUFF on my head! I'm considering the Innova Hybrid, which has a built in chin support. The Mirage Liberty FF with Nasal Pillows doesn't have chin support, but claims to accomodate jaw movement -- not sure I believe that. I've tried the Mirage Swift LT for Her before and returned it, but I am thinking of trying it again. It actually made me feel a bit more claustrophobic than the full face, and apparently I only breathe through one nostril at a time. (Who knew?)

Since all these have nasal pillows, I could use some input on how it feels with the nasal pillows. Somehow the Swift didn't feel right, maybe like not enough air. Could I use more air pressure, or trim the pillows to have a larger opening? I'm getting a bit frustrated.

[brazospearl]

zoomama, sorry to hear you're having trouble. A new mask might help; I LOVE my Hybrid. It doesn't cover my nose and the chin flap keeps my mouth closed, pretty much, and even if my mouth lips open a bit I don't lose any therapy air. Raising your pressure is probably a good idea if you're noticing more events. Could you list your equipment in your profile? It's make it easier for people to help you!

[DoriC]

My husband is successful with Resmed Ultra Mirage FF. The Quattro is the upgrade but he could never adjust to it. They are similar in design but different in how they both fit.

[shooter]

The F&P 432 has chin support.
It works pretty good for me.

[Janknitz]

Personally I think Swift nasal pillows (LT and FX) are wonderful, BUT they will not work if you can't keep your mouth sealed. So they just may not end up being for you.

If you do try them again:

You may have needed to go up a size in pillows, larger nasal pillows have larger openings. They are a bit finicky to adjust at first--if the mask is too tight the pillows collapse and that could contribute to the suffocating feeling--they must be worn far more loosely than you might think and then you need some tricks so you can move around without disloding them.

Good nasal /sinus hygiene is a must--saline rinses, steroid nasal sprays and oral antihistamines may be needed to keep nasal passages clear.

Some people have reported needing to turn the pressure up a notch or two for comfort in the nasal pillows--personally I think you just may not perceive the airflow as much with them, though I don't feel the need to.