Titration Needed for New Mask?

As a new user, I'd like to thank all those who generously contribute to this site. Like many others, once I completed my sleep study I was somewhat thrown to the wind (and wolves). I suffered many of the oft-mentioned problems with a national DME chain (lack of proper mask fitting, poor instructions, poor follow up, being overcharged, etc.). I won't mention their name to protect the guilty. I decided to jettison them and move on. This website and its contributors have been an incredible resource.

Here are my questions...I had a cold when I had my sleep study. The tech used a full face mask, and then that was what was prescribed for me. I think I'd like to try some other mask to see if I get better results. So:

1. Do I need another sleep study to determine the titration for a different mask, or will I use the same setting as for my full face mask?

2. If I am going to try other masks types, any thoughts on my next best step (nasel mask, nasal pillow)?

Once again, thanks to all who contribute - I learn much from both "old hands" and "newbies."

It might help if you filled in your profile with the equipment you're using.

Are you using the exact same mask and machine you were titrated with?

It would be a rare situation for them to do another titration just to switch masks.

So, my answer is "No" to the first.

And, to the second, how is the present mask working? Is there a valid reason to try a different one?


Den

Thanks Wulfman - and sorry - I updated my profile but forgot to hit "submit."

Here's what I have:

Machine: ResMed S8 Escape II
Humidifier: ResMed H4i Heated Humidifier
Mask: Respironics ComfortGel Full Face

I continue to have problmes with the seals on the ComfortGel. They first fitted me incorrectly with a large, then a medium. I bought a small on-line. Seems like I'm right in between a medium and small. I've tweaked and tweaked, but still develop leaks overnight that wake me up.

I don't think I am a mouth breather, so I thought I might have more success with something other than a full face mask.

Thanks again.

Do you have a hard copy of your RX? Does it specify what kind of mask, or does it say "patient's choice" or something like that? Does the RX have an expiration date? My original RX said 3 months only.

If you're buying from cpap.com, and need a new RX, you can download a RX form from cpap.com, for completion--by a physician, nurse practioner, dentist, etc.

I believe brick and mortar DME's, and most on-line DME's like cpap.com require an RX for a mask. Though I recently bought one on Amazon.com without one.

If you have the opportunity to try some masks on, that's very helpful. Does the sleep center you went to, have masks you can try on? Or, are you planning to try another DME?

If you're buying on-line (like me), then go to cpap.com and complete the Mask Fitting questionnaire, and then print the 3-4 pages of masks that are recommended for your size. That's a good starting point, but not 100%, as the only sure way is to try it on with your cpap, overnight. So I always buy the Mask Insurance (an additional $20+), so I can return the mask for a full refund of the mask price, if it doesn't work out. I've tried and returned 2, and it went very smoothly, no problems.

Here's a link to the Wicki article on Masks:

wiki/index.php/CPAP_Mask

I also find it helpful to read the reviews on masks at cpap.com. And of course, threads here.

Or maybe a "different" full face mask.......
I've read that others have had problems getting/keeping a seal with the ComfortGel FF.


Den

ChooChoo did you find another brick and mortar DME close by or are you now purchasing on the internet? A good DME can be a godsent if you are having problems. Also go up above and click on the suitcase where it says local service. Do a search there for a local support group and a DME. The support group can be helpful if they are active. You may find someone there that is willing to sit down with you and help you with your problems or to just answer questions.
Many times mask leaks are caused by incorrect adjustment of placement of the mask.

Gerry