Leaking Zest mask

[Susie1218]

I have been on CPAP for 2 weeks tonight. The good news is that I tried to sleep without my mask last night, because of all my leaking problems, and couldn't. So, I'd say it's great that I've adjusted to it so quickly. The problem is that my mask shoots cold air into my eyes all night no matter what I do. I had a coworker ask me about all the marks on my face today I had it so tight last night, lol. No matter what I do I still get the leaks and my eyes burn all day. The leaks are at the top where those indentations are on the spongy insert to the mask. Has anyone figured out a way to make these leaks stop? I can't get a new mask for 6 months, and even if I could find a good deal for one online I'd still have to sleep until it got here? Help!

[KimberlyM]

Hi Susie,

I have the Zest HC407. Have you tried moving the mask up higher on the bridge of your nose, or lower on your lip? Pull it away and reseat it after the air is on, then hold it in place for a minute to let it seal well. I have noticed that you can have no oil on your skin and the mask has to be squeaky clean for it to seal well. If the mask just doesn't fit your face well, you may be able to swap on here with a Zest user or pick up a different mask really cheaply on CPAPauction.com. Sorry to hear of your troubles. I quit using mine as well since I switched to nasal pillows.

[NightMonkey]

I am not familiar with that mask but in general you need to make sure the mask is sized properly to your face and adjusted properly. You should not have it adjusted tight - this may cause leaks.

Have a look at the brochure, fitting guide, sizing guide, and usage guide on the F&P website: http://www.fphcare.com/osa/mask-solutio ... -mask.html. There should be some good, detailed instructions there.

Getting the mask to work right is the biggie. Do that and it sounds like you will be successful.

[Bluecat]

Hello,

I use the Zest mask.
1) I take it apart and wash it with mild soap (except the foam thing inside of course) every week (sunday morning chores )
2) Once the air is on, I pull it slightly away from my face to let it "inflate" and let go of it

My leaks are very low (4-6L/min on the software), and I have no pb with air in my eyes. The only time when I have noticed it is if I haven't done the washing of the mask in over a week's time (in fact, if I feel I get a less good seal during the week, I wash it)

[Susie1218]

Thanks everyone. I've actually tried all those things and wash it once a day. I talked them into letting "borrow" a mask. Of course if I like it, they aren't sure that I can actually change, lol. Apparently the inside spongy design has been changed. The new indentations at the top are my problem. This whole CPAP thing has been quite a challenge, but I can tell it's helping me so I'll keep going until I find the perfect mask. That really does seem to be the key to all the rest of it!

[KimberlyM]

Thanks everyone. I've actually tried all those things and wash it once a day. I talked them into letting "borrow" a mask. Of course if I like it, they aren't sure that I can actually change, lol. Apparently the inside spongy design has been changed. The new indentations at the top are my problem. This whole CPAP thing has been quite a challenge, but I can tell it's helping me so I'll keep going until I find the perfect mask. That really does seem to be the key to all the rest of it!

If you get a chance, try the nasal pillows. I went from a Zest to the pillows and will never go back again!