First night with Activa

Paul · Post by **Paul** » Tue Nov 09, 2004 8:41 am

Although I had been trying to find a smaller mask that might work for me (one that didn't obscure vision and cover a lot of face) I finally gave in and got the Activa since everyone recommends it.

Last night was my first night. I liked it. It didn't leak all night like the Prfile Lite. However, what I found was that it pulsed up and down at times. I know other people have reported this too. I am on straight CPAP - 9 pressure, no CFLex or anything like that. Is it possible to stop the pulsing? Did I have it too tight or too loose? I would appreciate any suggestions.

Thanks Paul

rested gal · Post by **rested gal** » Tue Nov 09, 2004 1:38 pm

I think the tendency to pulsate is going to happen with the Activa, no matter what. Although it seems to be more noticeable for people who have bipaps (or cpap with C-Flex) I've noticed it with my autopap too - a slight up/down movement of the mask as I inhale/exhale. Would happen the same on straight cpap too, I'd guess. Any change of airflow within the Activa (like your normal breathing) is going to make the mask move somewhat. The Activa's unique "bellows" design that makes it so leakproof is a mixed blessing - does create that tendency for the mask to pulsate with our breathing. That bothered me a bit at first, but I got accustomed to it. For the greater comfort of wearing straps so loosely and the amazing leakproofness, I figured it was a trade off worth getting used to.

wading thru the muck! · Post by **wading thru the muck!** » Tue Nov 09, 2004 2:03 pm

Paul,

I too noticed my Activa pulsing initialy and commented on it in an earlier post.

I've notice though over several weeks that the pulsing is most noticable when you first put on the mask or if you take a deep breath.

If you manage to catch yourself when you just wake up and your breathing is shallow and normalized the Activa does not pulse at all.

Experiment with how tight you are wearing the lower straps. You will find there is a wide range in which the mask still seals. Choose the adjustment that suits you the best.

You've made the right choice - just spend some time to get it just right for you.

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Tue Nov 09, 2004 6:12 pm

Thanks for the feedback. I have noticed generally what you say about breating when you wake up through the night. Whenever I put my CPAP on I am so aware of the pressure but if I wake at 3 or 4 in the morning it seems like I am breathing so easily - with no CPAP pressure or resistance. A few times I opened my mouth to see if air rushed out - just to make sure it is working. Sometimes I wonder if something is wrong since I don't feel the pressure at those times. Do you have this same experience?

Paul

wading thru the muck! · Post by **wading thru the muck!** » Tue Nov 09, 2004 7:16 pm

Paul,

You got it!

I've done that very same thing myself.

That's why the Activa is such a great mask. Sometimes it almost feels as though it's not there.

Don't worry it's working!

JudyAnn · Post by **JudyAnn** » Wed Nov 10, 2004 11:30 am

I agree too. I have the Activa and sometimes I wake up and do not think that the air is blowing because it feels so natural.

I have to tell you that the longer you are on this, the better it gets. I had a girl at work today tell me that I look so good, so refreshed, not so tired looking and worn out. I credit it to my autopap and mask and above all the AIR to make it happen.

You will get used to all the noises and it will become a part of you. I have been a "Hosehead" for 4 months now and this board is a lifesaver when it comes to questions being answered and support and encouragement.

Take care and keep on truckin.

Judy