Glad to have a backup

I used the Activa for 9 months and really got good results. It is a bit heavy, and yes, it does pulse with the Aflex, but all in all, I liked the low leakage, loose straps etc. Still one of my favorites.

Just to try a pillows style, I bought the Optilife. I immediately decided THIS is the mask for me, and it has been great for about 6 months. It's light, seals well and is very comfortable.

Then 3 nights ago, I woke up with really sore nares. I've had no pressure change, no cold, no change in the straps or anything else.

Boy, am I glad I have the Activa as a backup. I'll give it one or two more nights of healing and then go back to the Optilife.

Bottom line is, even if you have a mask that works well, and you wouldn't switch for anything, it's probably a good idea to buy one or two different styles. Never know when you'll need a backup.

You may want to try some ayr gel or just plain water based personal lubricant to help the nare irritation while healing and use when you go back to your nasal pillows. I've heard it helps get a good seal too. Backup masks are great. I usually keep an extra hanging from the center of my headboard. I've been known to change them in the middle of the night if one is really bothering me.

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CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): seal, Nasal Pillows

I started out using a F&P 431 and didn't have a back up mask at all. (I bet most people only have one mask and aren't as proactive as members here are ).

I became intrigued with the different masks after all the reading I was doing on here. My first thought when I heard about the nasal pillow masks were yuck -- no way could I have the air blowing straight up my nose let alone having something sticking in my nose!! Yet, so many people seem to like them that I purchased a SNAPP mask on eBay. I haven't been able to use it for more than a few hours at a time.

I then purchased an Optilife Nasal Mask that was brand new on eBay!! I fell in love with that mask as it is so light weight and not as bulky on my face.

That has prompted me to want to try other masks out to see which masks works best for me.

I am now trying out the Swift II and have really liked it the last couple of nights.

It is almost like an addiction really -- wanting to try different methods, equipments, etc. out to try to make the most of the therapy.

I figure we are worth it though!!

I agree everyone should have a spare mask in case you need it!! I, too, have traded masks in the middle of the night when I have become frustrated with a particular mask.

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CPAPopedia Keywords Contained In This Post (Click For Definition): nasal pillow, swift

LavenderMist wrote:I usually keep an extra hanging from the center of my headboard. I've been known to change them in the middle of the night if one is really bothering me.

Whoa! There's a new idea. Next time I try a new mask, I'm going to keep the old one there. But for now I'm happy with the Headrest.

And then there's that old saying "You can never be too thin, too rich, or have too many masks" . I'm saving mine to open a new mask-fitting business someday. . .

Let us know when you start that business, Rose ... I'll bet you'd find *lost* of customers

I always keep a spare mask. I'm due for a 3-month replacement hose and plan to get it so I'll have a spare for that, too. I don't want to risk a night without my cpap!

The couple of times I've tried a new mask, I keep my main mask ready-to-wear on my nightstand and it has come in handy.

Mindy