Mask leaks around 3AM every night

I have been using a Quattro FX for about a month. I have it set up about as loose as possible while still getting a seal. I get a good, comfortable seal when I first put the mask on at bedtime, but every night, around 3AM, it starts to leak. I end up taking the mask off and waiting for the air to stop flowing to put the mask on again. It is usually ok for the rest of the night.
Any idea what I may be doing wrong, and what I can do to prevent it?
Thanks.

Mike

This is just a guess, but is your xPAP setup for auto pressure? If so, it could be that it is hitting a higher pressure at that time. If you go into the menu, you'll find a mask test option. This will allow you to adjust the mask at the max pressure setting that is programmed into your machine.

Wonder if facial oils or moisture is affecting the seal. Maybe a mask liner to help absorb any potential moisture or oil????

As the night goes on the muscles in your face relax and for many of us that means that some leaks (face farts) occure.

LSAT wrote:As the night goes on the muscles in your face relax and for many of us that means that some leaks (face farts) occure.

SO, should I tighten the mask, or just accept that the mask will leak?
Thanks.

Mike

SGearhart wrote:This is just a guess, but is your xPAP setup for auto pressure? If so, it could be that it is hitting a higher pressure at that time. If you go into the menu, you'll find a mask test option. This will allow you to adjust the mask at the max pressure setting that is programmed into your machine.

Yes, its a VPAP. When I run the mask test the seal is fine. I will have to check it out on Sleepyhead this weekend.
Thanks.

Mike

Pugsy wrote:Wonder if facial oils or moisture is affecting the seal. Maybe a mask liner to help absorb any potential moisture or oil????

When it woke me up last night I washed my face again. It started leaking less than two hours later. I'll try a liner tonight.
Thanks.

Mike

If the leak rate is less than 24L/m, then over time, I would make adjustments, but not worry about it. Your machine is compensating for it. I agree that the facial muscles relax after we go to sleep.

Sheriff

Sounds good. Thanks!

Mike

Mike

Have you tried a mask liner? There is a member here that runs a company called padacheek that makes mask liners.
I have heard it said on more than one occasion that they are very useful in dealing with the quattro mask seal.
They also make the fit more comfortable as you don't have the silicon contact on your face.

~UB

My wisp starts leaking about an hour after having it on even with the new cushion. It was great for the first month...the headgear and frame are already pretty worn. I feel your pain!