Thick and long hair...mask not fitting well?

General Discussion on any topic relating to CPAP and/or Sleep Apnea.
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raisedfist
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Thick and long hair...mask not fitting well?

Post by raisedfist » Wed Oct 05, 2022 9:19 am

Using the same mask as always (F&P Vitera FFM medium cushion), took out other variables such as replaced cushion, clean shaved my face. I still can't get a very good mask seal at the usual pressures. Eventually I will start to feel a bit of leak or excess noise from the cushion and I keep having to adjust my position/mask while in bed. I haven't gotten my hair cut in like six months now. Can this actually matter? The headgear does go on seemingly fine.

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Philips Respironics Trilogy 100
AVAPS-AE Mode
PS Min 6, PS Max 18, EPAP Min 4, EPAP Max 12

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chunkyfrog
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Location: Nebraska--I am sworn to keep the secret of this paradise.

Re: Thick and long hair...mask not fitting well?

Post by chunkyfrog » Wed Oct 05, 2022 9:37 am

I find that thick hair can make headgear more stable.
Keep the headgear clean (ish), and replace if it is not springy.
Medicare has an illusion that headgear need only be replaced 2X a year.
I disagree.

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Mask: AirFit™ P10 For Her Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear
Additional Comments: Airsense 10 Autoset for Her

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raisedfist
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Joined: Wed Jun 15, 2016 7:21 am

Re: Thick and long hair...mask not fitting well?

Post by raisedfist » Wed Oct 05, 2022 9:52 am

Welp I guess I'll try washing the headgear along with all the other parts then, make the mask great again!

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Mask
Philips Respironics Trilogy 100
AVAPS-AE Mode
PS Min 6, PS Max 18, EPAP Min 4, EPAP Max 12

clownbell
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Re: Thick and long hair...mask not fitting well?

Post by clownbell » Wed Oct 05, 2022 2:11 pm

How old is the cushion? The silicone can get hard (perhaps even minute cracks) and not seal well.

How tight are the straps. Some users think that cranking them down super tight will eliminate leaks, however the opposite is true. Straps too tight can distort the silicone seal and actually CAUSE leaks.

Perhaps the mask cushion is not the right size.

Perhaps the mask is not appropriate for the shape of your face.

Several factors to be considered.
ResMed AirSense 10 Autoset with built in humidifier
Resmed P10 pillow mask