cpap newbie with question

jer2911tx · Post by **jer2911tx** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 8:55 pm

my insurance company (cigna) wouldn't pay for my sleep study people to set me up with a cpap, so it had to be mailed from another company. it came in two days ago, and i think i figured out enough the first night to get it set up and use it.
after two nights, today i didn't have to go to work, so i didn;t shave, and my lip has been itching like crazy, like my lip is aggravated from the mask.
how can i stop that from getting worse?
it is driving me crazy

i think after a week or so i'm gonna call and tell them the mask just isn't working.
i can't sleep on my side without air leaking out, and i'm paranoid about air blowing in my eye because it sounds like that can cause an infection

how can i keep the mask from aggravating my lip and itching like crazy from razor stubble

Perry · Post by **Perry** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 9:20 pm

There are many variations on mask.

First thing I would do is see if your insurance company would pay for a local DME to fit test you and supply you with another style of mask (interface).

Basic options are mask that only has prongs that extend into the nose (nasal pillows), mask that covers the nose (nasal mask), mask that cover the nose and mouth (Full face - and a lot more expensive).

Within each category their are many different options. Many insurance company DME's will set up a person with the cheapest mask they can - but most know that a person may need to try several mask to get one that works.

In the worst case, you may have to pay for your own mask. At least nasal pillows and nasal mask are not that expensive (compared to the other options).

It is very important that you find a mask that works for you.

The other people in this forum can probably advise you of what is currently the best things to try for nasal mask. I use a Full Face mask, and don't even try to keep up with nasal systems.

Perry

Guest · Post by **Guest** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 9:36 pm

CIGNA has preferred providers all over the country. Ask for one in your area or check your phone book for medical supply companies and call them and ask them if they take your insurance.

jer2911tx · Post by **jer2911tx** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 9:40 pm

the one it came with was the one that covers the nose only.
lying on my back, it works for a while, but if i move much or try to sleep on my side, i leak air through the side of the mask or leak air towards my eyes.
is there anything i can do to stop the itching?
it feels like fiberglass on my upper lip!

Perry · Post by **Perry** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 10:08 pm

Fixing the mask leakage is as important as stopping the itching. Can you adjust straps to pull the mask tight at the leak points? I know that does not always work.

You really need to have a DME help fit test you with a mask.

As a temporary measure to stop the itch - get some solarcain or other anti itch ointment. It will probably affect the plastic in the mask over a period of weeks (destroying it). But if you have to get a new mask to stop the leaks - or one that does not itch - does it matter if you shorten the life of the one you got (they normally only last 6 months or so anyway).

Perry

jer2911tx · Post by **jer2911tx** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 10:40 pm

the mask that came with my cpap machine is a crappy one, i'm sure......comfortselect from respironics

i'll call and complain after a week or so of trying

johnnygoodman · Post by **johnnygoodman** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 11:12 pm

Welcome to cpaptalk!

The mask you have is a very basic one and obviously not ideal for you.

Many new users benefit from the Resmed Activa's billows system. It lets you roll at night and has a "give" that reduces the irritation you are experiencing.

Here is the a link for more info on the mask:

https://www.cpap.com/productpage/resmed ... allow.html

and here is a link to find the right sized activa for you:

https://www.cpap.com/cpap-mask-sizing.php?PNum=1795

Keep asking questions! Keep banging on your DME! This can work, but you've got to make it work.

Johnny

ozij · Post by **ozij** » Fri Dec 23, 2005 11:50 pm

The following recommendation, from a Respironics represntative in a TAS chat, is good for any mask - and helped me tremendously. The added emphasis is mine:

Soak

63. How do I clean the ComfortLite™ mask?

We recommend using mild soapy water on a daily basis for optimal results for any of our masks. Avoid soap with moisturizers. Cushions tend to interact to natural facial oils, so be sure to wash your face each night before use. Your seal and comfort can be compromised if cushions acquire build up on the cushion surface. For those with sensitive skin, it is a good idea to soak ANY new mask you use for 30-60 minutes in mild soapy water

...glad to see you're posting again, Johnny.
O.

jer2911tx · Post by **jer2911tx** » Sat Dec 24, 2005 4:25 pm

oh man, i should have coaked it in warm, soapy water before i used it.
i guess i'll do that now and see if it helps.
the pharmacist recommended Eucerin (moisturizer) to fix the itching, it felt like fiberglass under my nose, not fun
i'll probably call cigna in a week or so and try to get a new mask.
it would be nice to be able to sleep on my side agaiin

Linda3032 · Post by **Linda3032** » Sat Dec 24, 2005 6:59 pm

Another reason for the itching = an allergy to the mask/rubber gel or whatever it's made out of. If soaking it doesn't stop the itching, try a benedryl cream, after you shave in the morning.

Linda