Mask issues

Hi everyone, first time posting, hope you're all well

I was diagnosed with OSA around a year ago now, it was somewhat severe apparently so I was given a CPAP machine within about a week of my sleep study.
After a tough start I persevered and finally got to a stage where using it felt normal, in fact I couldn't sleep without it now
However, lately I've had a couple of issues I was hoping some of you could help me with....
1) I've developed a redness on my face underneath where my mask sits, it's not sore, it doesn't feel irritated, I've had it checked by the drs, been prescribed ointment, tried loads of different over the counter stuff etc, but it wont go away
I clean my mask every day as instructed, so it's not that....
I'm wondering if anyone has had this issue?

2) ( could be connected to 1)
Lately I just cant seem to get my mask right, it was fine for ages, but now I feel I have to make it so tight just to stop leaks etc, I adjust it over and over, but no joy

I've also developed some facial twitching, I'm wondering if anyone had experienced this due to wearing their mask too tight, or even if it's a common potential side effect?

It's just both issues seem to coincide with my mask issues

I apologise for the essay, I'd appreciate any feedback
Thanks

Have you tried using a mask liner? That will keep the mask cushion from touching your skin.

I haven't, just googled them, could be an answer!

Thanks, I think ill give one a try
Much appreciated

Also no need to wash the mask every day I was mine once a week and wipe down with an unscented baby wipe once a day

I've been down the red marks on the face road myself. I've tried probably a dozen creams with no luck. What works best for me is to soak a wash rag in the hottest water my face can allow. I then wash the red areas. Usually in an hour or so.... the red areas diminish. Normally as the day goes on, the red marks will diminish. Tell people you fell asleep on a hot BBQ grill!

Your mask may be too tight. When was the last time you replaced the cushion? When my leak rates go thru the roof is when I replace my cushion.

Sheriff

Thanks for the reply

I'm sure it's too tight, I just cant seem to get it right anymore
I've not replaced or changed anything since I've had it (a year)
How often would/ should you change things??

Mask cushion life and mask headgear life both come with a huge YMMV sticker. Some people can get years out of both and some are lucky to get a couple of months out of the cushion and 6 months out of the headgear.

Headgear will stretch and the cushions get tired and are much harder to get and keep a good seal.

Insurance normally allows 1 cushion per month and 1 headgear per 6 months. Most people can get more than one month out of a cushion though. The Vitera you are using is relatively new to the market so I haven't really seen many people report on the life of that mask.

Time for you to get a new mask and see if that resolves your issues.

I've been thinking that it's the equipment
I'm in England so it's all done vis the NHS, I'll have to wait for my review (which I beleive is soon) and see what they have to say I guess