Newbie with a hint

First of all, thanks for being here. I don't think I would have gotten through the first 6 weeks witout cpaptalk. I've got a great Walgreen's DME RT, but while she's had good advice for me, we both agree that this is a work in progress and each person has to figure out what works for them.

From you folks I have learned that, yes, one does eventually acclimate to wind rushing up your nose (it is SO weird having to check my vent holes to be sure there's air flowing), and that there are mask alternatives .

I started with the F&P 432, but I had trouble with leaks and then developed huge pressure pimples on the bridge of my nose. I called my DME that Monday and was told to come on up to the office to try something different. I asked to try everything she had in nasal interfaces and spent 2 hours lying on her office floor trying things on. The Swift was the most functional for me and I still love it. She provided a chinstrap, but I discovered that my lips would still flap in the night.

And so the quest for "lip sealing" began. Tried tape. OW. Tried Polident strips. Better, but gooey. I'm a flute player and very picky about what I do to my mouth. I then experimented with DenTek, the G.U.M. wax for protecting one's mouth from braces brackets. I warmed the rectangle of wax against a teacup, and stuck it against the splint I use at night for bruxism. It fits between the teeth and lips, quickly conforming to shape. Well, it wasn't quite big enough, but gave me the impression that I was on the right track. And it lasted 8 days, which was convenient (nb - wash in COLD water).
Part 2 of the experiment involved visiting an orthodontist and getting a couple of samples of the new silicone "wax". Doesn't crumble, lasts longer, not "minty fresh". Used two portions, molded it to the right shape, just a simple rectangular seal across the teeth from molar to molar. I still use the chinstrap (but not as tight), so my jaw doesn't open enough to let the strip fall out. I used it last night for the first time with great success and lots of drooling (which the chinstrap absorbed).
Part 3 will involve a visit to the dentist to see if she can make something with the same properties but longer-lasting and easier to clean.

I'm still experimenting with pillows. My favorite so far is a Cushie microbead pillow from Walgreens which supports my neck but allows the back of my head to rest on the bed. Seems to be a good position for preventing aerophagea.

Next quest: How to reduce aerophagea when sleeping on right or left side (can you say pufferfish?)...

Shari

Shari, welcome to a new "lab rat." That's a compliment, as you probably know from having read the board.

Sounds like you're well on your way to getting the treatment pieces of the puzzle in place. Thanks for a very interesting post and good tip for others who are struggling with mouth air leaks.