A nose mask too tight can make it harder to breathe?

Hi, people! I'm new here so I'm sorry if this question is too basic.

I just started with CPAP, my equipment is a Dreamstar Intro Evolve (rented) and I got a nose mask (Mirage FX). The thing is, when I tighten it to keep it from leaking a feel a huge pressure over my upper lip when I lay down and I simply can't breathe.

Do I have to find a sweet spot for both upper and lower harness adjustments? Anyone has any tips for me?

Thank you all in advance!

AngeloBRS wrote: ↑

Sat Aug 05, 2023 4:34 pm

Do I have to find a sweet spot for both upper and lower harness adjustments? Anyone has any tips for me?

welcome to the zoo.

you might want to look on you tube. do a search on "mask fitting mirage fx". if there is more than one video, watch them all. each one will be just that much different and will help you out.

also, make sure you fit your mask while laying down.

good luck!

AngeloBRS wrote: ↑

Sat Aug 05, 2023 4:34 pm

Hi, people! I'm new here so I'm sorry if this question is too basic.

I just started with CPAP, my equipment is a Dreamstar Intro Evolve (rented) and I got a nose mask (Mirage FX). The thing is, when I tighten it to keep it from leaking a feel a huge pressure over my upper lip when I lay down and I simply can't breathe.

Do I have to find a sweet spot for both upper and lower harness adjustments? Anyone has any tips for me?

Thank you all in advance!

There are also nasal cradle masks like the AirFit N30 and the Dreamwear nasal masks that fit your nose differently. They cradle from the bottom rather than applying pressure all around your nose. The nasal masks like the AirFit N20 that apply pressure all around my nose don't work for me, maybe they don't work for you, as well? Don't know if you've looked at nasal pillow masks, like the AirFit P10, for example, there's another mask that might work better for you.

Just a thought, and echo the idea of going to Youtube and looking at fitting videos for the Mirage FX. And review videos for whatever other masks you might be considering. Very useful.

Some of us are unable to use some masks because pressure along the sides
of the nose can cause tissues inside the nose to expand in response.
It happens to me, so I only use nasal pillows.

I see, thank you! I checked some videos and I'll give it another go tonight. I'll check the nasal pillow mask also...

chunkyfrog wrote: ↑

Sat Aug 05, 2023 7:26 pm

Some of us are unable to use some masks because pressure along the sides
of the nose can cause tissues inside the nose to expand in response.
It happens to me, so I only use nasal pillows.

I am with CF on this one. The pressure on the sides of my nostrils from those nasal masks that fit over the nose, just causes me to not be able to breathe or move air through my nose.
Take the mask off and the nose immediately is clear....so I know it is the mask.
I learned this many years ago and that is why I won't even look at those traditional over the nose masks. I won't/can't use them.

Now the under the nose cushion nasal mask...like the ResMed AirFit N30...that's a nice little mask.
No vent nose and super comfortable and minimal headgear. It won't displace my number one choice for a mask but it comes in a respectable 2nd place ...sort of tied with P10 nasal pillow mask from ResMed.

I managed to fit it! I used it for 3 and a half hours, but next time I'll keep it even if I wake up during the night.

AngeloBRS wrote: ↑

Sun Aug 06, 2023 5:38 am

I managed to fit it! I used it for 3 and a half hours, but next time I'll keep it even if I wake up during the night.

that's a very good attitude!