1st time using a FFM - Requesting Guidance

[Pugsy]

Okay, sending some good vibes your way.
You've got more guts than me.

[TalonNYC]

Good luck with it! I had to switch to a FFM because my tongue relaxes at night and causes HUUUUUGE leaks on a nasal. I was getting some dry-mouth issues in the last few weeks (see my posts of last week and this week), but tweaking the humidity did seem to help that a lot.

As for adjustments, yes, you do have to change your settings a bit. I don't have the same machine as you, but one of your settings is for mask type. You have to set this because otherwise the expected leak doesn't match the actual "normal" FFM air flow numbers, and the machine thinks you're having massive leaks all night when you're not =)

For many, including me, a slightly higher pressure is necessary when using a FFM. For me, it was only 1/2 cm/H2O that did the trick.

Let us know how it goes!

[n0hardmask]

@nohardmask - I hope you find my response. I got a hoot out of it!!! Had to show my husband when I came home from work today. He told me to tell you (we both say unanimously), "That is fricken cool!!!" *chuckles*, after looking at your photo not a single person can EVER say we feel claustrophobic! If you don't mind me asking, what is your pressure with that mask??? Too funny nohardmask, thank you very much for sharing.
Last night, I cleaned the mask as instructed. Tonight I'll make an attempt to wear it. I'll report tomorrow or Saturday how I how I did.
Starlette

Hope your first FFM night went well, Starlette. It has been decades since I wore the pilot gear and your asking about the pressure reminded me that there was a Leak Check with those, and man, it was strong. The other aspect is there is a microphone in the mask because you have to talk on radio and intercom while wearing it, so voice always sounded irregular.

The best/worst reaction to the mask was the day I took it home and walked in the door; puppy Beagle went ballistic! Really rattled her, more than I could have ever imagined. Glad Y'all got a chuckle.

Seriously, I hope that leak management isn't too significant for you, but you have a huge supporting team here at CpapTalk. Looking forward to your report of the morning.. we're all pulling for you!

[carbonman]

ok, going to bed with the FFM. I'm nervous about this.
Good night everyone. Starlette

Such is the grand adventure that we call cpap.
A constant opportunity to go beyond our perceived limits.
A chance to see beyond our horizons.

....just remember, once you go full, you'll never go back.

Sweet dreams.

[DoriC]

@ Jabman - I don't know how people can make a living wearing a mask, I applaud you. I couldn't do it.

Another question. I couldn't find it explained in the booklet, what are the little knobs that are on each side by the lower latches?

Hope you did OK with the UMFF, that's the only one my husband has success with although sometimes it gets a bit finicky. I think those little knobs are oxygen ports, make sure they're tightened securely. Keep us posted!

[Starlette]

Good evening all.

I'm very exhausted so I'm going to make this brief. First, I'm going to end this thread by first saying thank you all for responding. I so appreciate the support and camaraderie as we all move towards cpap nirvana.

Second: Some brief comments -
I called my PCP medical desk today to inquire about the resistance settings for my FFM and couple other mask collection. I'm going to fax them the info over the weekend. She was very willing to help.
Strange, I always thought that the only folks that could wear FFM were heavy snorers. That myth has now been put to rest.

Third: I thought of this last night to utilize this situation to start a brief journal on the forum to let our new cpap friends know about the transition to a FFM.

So now I'll start a new thread of my brief journal.

Starlette