Nasal pillow mask recommendations

[jtgolfer]

I've been using nasal pillows for quite some time. I started with the Breeze, tried the Opus 360 and for the past couple years have used the OptiLife.

The OptiLife has always given me a good seal but now head gear is sliding around at night. Maybe I just need new headgear.

I had real hopes for the Opus 360 because I liked the hose-over-the-head concept but I just couldn't get the thing to give me a consistent seal. I trimmed the black pads off the cheek "rails" and then just pad-a-cheeks on the rails. That helped some but I still experienced leaks so I went back to my OptiLife. I haven't tried the Opus with my new S9 autopap but I can't see where the cpap would make a difference. I could compare the leakage though.

There doesn't seem to be a consensus regarding the Swift makes. Some like the FX and some like the Swift II. But I'm considering giving it a try. Perhaps there's another "new, great thing" I haven't heard of. Not much for shopping choices where I live so I kind of rely on the Web to check out equipment.

I'm a side sleeper (at least when I start) but sometimes am on my back. I've got my cpap on the headboard behind me.

Thanks.

[Janknitz]

I could not get the Optilife or the Opus to give me consistent seals.

I really like the Swift LT and Swift FX. You might prefer the LT because it has a clip for holding the hose over the head. The Swift FX has a very flexible "slinky" hose that's a bit heavy and hard to control, so if the hose is coming from back behind your head you might find that the weight of the slinky hose causes you problems. The LT is a bit more stable on your face, and there are cogwheel connections that let you choose the angle of the pillows for a great seal.

Just be aware that the Swift Pillows (FX and LT) need to be replaced regularly as they wear down with continuous use.

[jtgolfer]

Thanks. I've looked at the LT and FX but hadn't really explored the differences. Your suggestions are a start.

I said I was a side sleeper. Actually, I sleep more on my belly or belly-side.

[Emilia]

I have used the Swift LT for Her the last two nights, and my AHI dropped nicely. It is an extremely comfortable mask, and having the hose up over the head is a nice feature.

[dtsm]

I've tried Fx, just doesn't work for me.
I've tried the LT, much better but it blows on my better half
So have been using Headrest the past 3+ months...happy camper. There are other Aeiomed Headrest folks on this forum...problem is you probably need to get on-line as most DME don't carry them, and it does require some tweaking to get the right fit.

[skylark40]

I concur with using the Swift LT for Her - very comfortable!

[allen476]

I had real hopes for the Opus 360 because I liked the hose-over-the-head concept but I just couldn't get the thing to give me a consistent seal. I trimmed the black pads off the cheek "rails" and then just pad-a-cheeks on the rails. That helped some but I still experienced leaks so I went back to my OptiLife. I haven't tried the Opus with my new S9 autopap but I can't see where the cpap would make a difference. I could compare the leakage though.

There doesn't seem to be a consensus regarding the Swift makes. Some like the FX and some like the Swift II. But I'm considering giving it a try. Perhaps there's another "new, great thing" I haven't heard of. Not much for shopping choices where I live so I kind of rely on the Web to check out equipment.


Thanks.

With the Opus, the adjust is made by the tube. The velcro band that they give you to hold the tube is flimsy at best. I took some thicker elastic cord and cut 2 pieces to replace it. Doesn't slip any more. The cheek straps should be snug but not tight as well. If you are getting strap marks in the morning, (other than from laying on them) they are too tight.

I have been using the Swift LT on and off for the past few months. The problem I am having is the pillows are not lasting more than 2 weeks. They collapse to the point that they leak badly. I am out of new pillows for it and won't get any for 2 weeks. I am using my Opus until I can do something. I am going to try the Breeze/Swift hybrid and see what happens. The pillows are pretty thin and are nowhere near what they used to be. If you want, search for Swift LT pillow problems.

Allen

[chunkyfrog]

I like the FX, but the hose runs through a scrunchy hanging from a fishing pole over my chest.
The shadow on the shades must be a riot!