Babbette,
how can I explain it. Ok, its kind of like a seam edge. If you put a pillow case on a pillow inside out the seam edge would be on the outside, and be like a rough edge.
when they made the mask its like the "right side" with the smooth edge is on the outer perimeter of the mask and the "wrong side" the rough edge of the seam is on the inner perimeter of the mask against the skin. Is that clearer? Its not really part of the seal, but my trying to just cover the film edge just could never only cover the edge and usually touched the gel cushion too that wrecked the seal.
Gasp,
thanks for the tip on the vibrating monitor, it might work for us. I'll have to check it out.
-Does it conform to your facial features as good as it implies?
For me it does. If in the night I get a leak, usually I can just make a quick adjustment to the bendable edge and its good. Straps not too tight helps, they are velcro and can attach anywhere on the holy cap so quick adjustments are easy there too, Usually I barely wake up. Most important for me to get a good seal is to eliminate all possible facial oil. I wash the mask in the morning, and wash my face really well just before going to sleep. having my face a trifle damp helps the seal a little too I think.
Does the gel cushion stay cool - or at least not get too warm with body heat?
I have never found it hot, but we have an air conditioner in the bedroom.
-Do you think the cap would accommodate my thick ponytail - meaning does it have at least a 3 inch opening where a high sitting ponytail might come out? (I put my ponytail high on my head to avoid it being a lump under my head : )
You could easily cut the holey cap to allow for your ponytail. I also wear a ponytail but not high. I have cut these caps to suit me, I need the petite size and when I can't find that I cut a small even smaller and re-attach the straps by sewing. I think these caps are great because they are so easily adaptable.
-Does the hose that goes up over the head disconnect at the mask so I could directly connect my hose to the mask; also is it the same size?
The hose does disconnect from the mask. The over the head part is optional, its a velcro strap that holds it. It can hang loose if you prefer, I do it either way depending on how I feel. As to size I am pretty sure its the universal size that fits all hoses, nothing special.
-Any other comments about the mask/headgear?
...hmm Ok sometimes, and I don't know why, the mask just doesn't fit my face. Its only a couple of days in several months. One doc suggested it might be sinus swelling from allergies or something. I guess it could be.
There is also a holey strap head gear that is good, really adjustable, but not so forgiving to being cut up as the cap.
Oh and one more thing, a lot of people do not like this mask. I haven't heard of many people who do like it. but for me its the best I have tried. It never bothered the bridge of my nose at all, I use the headgear as a two strap rather than three so I can use my glasses and I don't see much in front of my face. Very important because I am SOOOOO claustrophobic.
Masks as everyone here knows are very personal and what suits one may torture another. I hope this helps.
Cathy
editing to say: I checked out the link to the vibrating baby monitor and it is very cool, discussed with the dh and he said go for it. So we are ordering and hopefully I will be back on hose pretty soon, then just gotta save my pennies to get that aflex!!!
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hose,
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