Activa cushion worn out?

drummergirl410 · Post by **drummergirl410** » Mon Nov 12, 2007 6:18 pm

I have been using the same Mirage Activa mask every night since I started xPAP which was July the 26th. A few days ago I started to notice that it wasn't doing the usual "push ups" anymore. Once the air is blowing I usually run my fingers lightly over the sushion to examine it. The other night I noticed that there are creases now in the two bottom corners of the "bellows" part of the cushion. That part of the mask doesn't seem to be inflating enough. The top half is still fine. I did a few minor adjustments on the fit, but it didn't seem to help. The creases always came back after a few seconds. The mask still works OK, but it's a bit more prone to leaks because it doesn't seem to be adjusting as well. My leak rate is usually 0.04 or 0.06. Lately its been around 0.14. My only concern is that with my visual impairment, I cannot allow any leakage around the eyes per my pulmonologist/opthomologist. So far I've been able to aviod it though. I've also taken great care to clean the mask and cushion every week. I use Johnson's Baby shampoo. I usually rinse off the cushion in the mornings and wrap a paper towel around it to keep out any flying debris, etc. Is it time I replaced the cushion? The whole mask setup?

With my insurance, I can get a new mask every six months and a cushion every month. However, if I get a cushion, I can't get another complete mask for another six months afterward. I should be due for a new mask in January. I was hoping the one I had would hold out so that maybe I could get a FFM then. Should I go ahead and get a new cushion for the Activa and put off another mask? Any other suggestions? I'd be up for just ordering one online but with the oncoming holidays, I don't want to spend the extra cash. After the first of the year, I could swing the purchase myself without a big deal. Any feedback, ideas, suggestions would be greatly appreciated!

bearcatx16 · Post by **bearcatx16** » Mon Nov 12, 2007 6:28 pm

Sent you a PM, I think.

Fred

drummergirl410 · Post by **drummergirl410** » Mon Nov 12, 2007 6:43 pm

Thanks so much, but for some reason it's not showing up. try again perhaps....

bearcatx16 · Post by **bearcatx16** » Mon Nov 12, 2007 6:58 pm

Another one is on it's way.

Fred

drummergirl410 · Post by **drummergirl410** » Mon Nov 12, 2007 7:02 pm

Got it.. thank you so mush! Reply sent!