Need mask advice

lisbeth wrote: ↑

Mon May 31, 2021 9:34 am

I am a new user hoping for some advice about what to try to get a mask that fits well. During my sleep test I used an F&P Simplus with a small seal and a ResMed Airfit F20 and was sent home with both of those. The DME sent an F&P Vitera with the machine; i understand it is an updated version of the Simplus. The ResMed mask is a non-starter; I am a long-time glasses wearer and it puts pressure on the wrong part of my nose--I keep trying to push it up to sit where my glasses sit. I have tried the Vitera with both the small and medium masks. The small generally does Ok but puts too much pressure on my face--I can feel for quite a while after I wake up. The medium is more comfortable but seems to be too big to get a good seal. I have mostly been using the Simplus while I get used to being on CPap, but I have one problem with it (and also with the Vitera)--it only works well when I don't move around much. The other night I managed to sleep for a few hours on my side, with half my face off the edge of the pillow, but when I rolled over onto my back, the mask evidently started leaking because it started whistling. I could not get it adjusted properly to stop the noise, which rose and fell like a siren in the distance as I breathed in and out. At one part I swear it was whistling in 3-part harmony with itself! I finally just gave up and took it off. Does anyone have a suggestion for a mask that is sized a little differently or has a slightly different shape that might work better? Thanks very much for any suggestions you can make.

clownbell wrote: ↑

Tue Jun 01, 2021 3:13 pm

@Kim49 - I presume you were referring to the ResMed F20 full face mask. I also tried it and had problems similar to yours. I moved on to the F30 (not the F30i, which is different) and have had good success with it. May I recommend it as another choice to consider. The F30 has the hose mounted on the front of the mask rather than on top. Some folks think top mount is a big deal. In my case, I have tried both and find it's no big deal.

Many people think they need a full face mask because someone told them they do because they have dry mouth or are a mouth breather, but don't be so sure. Granted you likely need FFM if you have a deviated septum or chronic nasal congestion in the daytime. I was told that I needed FFM did not solve my dry mouth problem, but that approach did not work in my case. I suggest you experiment and see what happens in your personal case. If you don't absolutely need a full face mask, the related N30 is a very comfortable nasal cradle mask that does not go over the nose.