Leaking like crazy

[Jason S.]

Leaking (large leaks) up to 50% of the night. Not getting therapy. I cannot detect (sound or feeling) any leaks when I am wearing the mask. I have adjusted both tight and not so tight with no change in leak rates.

What is going on?

[DoriC]

Is it time for a new mask? It seems when we get past about the 5-6 month mark, the mask starts leaking more. Last night Mike had a LL for about 35mins, he didn't hear it but it finally woke me up and I adjusted it. The headgear is also getting stretchy. We'll probably need a new one in about a month. Medicare allows one every 3 months but we wait until we really need one.

[Jason S.]

Is it time for a new mask? It seems when we get past about the 5-6 month mark, the mask starts leaking more. Last night Mike had a LL for about 35mins, he didn't hear it but it finally woke me up and I adjusted it. The headgear is also getting stretchy. We'll probably need a new one in about a month. Medicare allows one every 3 months but we wait until we really need one.

Its been 3 months but you may be right. I'm switching back to the Quattro to see if it is the mask.

[elena88]

have you tried the new nose pillow masks like the swift fx?

[Julie]

I find that (for the UM FF) if I just use wipes on the cushion periodically it seems to 'come back', whereas washing all the time, or never cleaning at all keeps it floppy(er) and less effective.

[DoriC]

How often is "periodically"? I use the wipes daily and wash weekly. Maybe too much?

[Julie]

Weekly... probably less than that! But I happen to hardly perspire at all, and do keep the mask covered during the day, so that's just me.

[Jason S.]

have you tried the new nose pillow masks like the swift fx?

No I wear a full face mask.

[Jason S.]

I find that (for the UM FF) if I just use wipes on the cushion periodically it seems to 'come back', whereas washing all the time, or never cleaning at all keeps it floppy(er) and less effective.

I use the Citris Wipes daily but admit I don't clean with soap and water very often.

[DoriC]

I know there are some here who have found less washing/wiping gives them better leak rates and preserves the cushion. Also should mention that hubby shaves every night as he has a pretty heavy beard and the few times he forgets, he has a leaky night.

[ozij]

It could also be the hose.
Or something in the humidifier to machine connection which lost its seal.

[Jason S.]

It could also be the hose.
Or something in the humidifier to machine connection which lost its seal.

I would think what you described would be constant leaks and show up in the data as such. I am showing sporadic leaks, which could be the mask depending on my head position.

[Jason S.]

switched back to Quattro last night (kills my nose). No leaking and AHI 1.5. Guess it was the mask.