Questions about pressure and different masks

ProfessorSleep · Post by **ProfessorSleep** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 11:51 am

Hello, everyone - I've been on cpap now for a little over a week and can see improvement already. I have learned a great deal reading the posts on this discussion forum and went with a Swift mask based on all I have read. I have been quite pleased, but also have an Activa I would like to switch to periodically to give my nose a rest. The pressure feels so different between the two interfaces, though - My pressure was determined to be 8 based on a split night study using a direct nasal interface (Infinity) and I can feel the pressure with the Swift. The Activa feels so different, though I'm wondering if it is just the way it feels or is there much difference in pressure delivery from one interface to another. I would appreciate your insights into pressure differences when changing mask types and whether the same setting is therapeutic with different masks. Thanks!

Sleepless on LI · Post by **Sleepless on LI** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 1:29 pm

This topic has been discussed on this site many times. You are not the only one who recognizes what feels like a difference in pressure when you use a nasal pillow interface as opposed to a mask. I think the main thing is, it's the same pressure only with the mask, you have to inhale to take in the air, and with the pillows, it gets "injected" directly into the nasal passage, making it feel stronger when you use the pillow types.

I don't think there is a need to adjust the pressure for one or the other. If you were on auto, it wouldn't matter anyway, but I believe you said you were on straight 8 cms. Someone will correct me if I'm wrong, but I don't believe you do any adjustment for that issue.

Glad to hear you are already feeling help from the treatment. It is amazing once it kicks in and you start to feel better. Best of luck to you.

ProfSleep · Post by **ProfSleep** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 1:38 pm

Thanks so much for the reply. Intuitively it made sense it would feel different, but at my relatively low pressure, and previously very low functioning, I want to make sure I get a therapeutic level. The feeling sure is different between the two - I don't mind that part, but so far I must say I'm partial to the Swift. But my nose needs a little change now and then!

WillSucceed · Post by **WillSucceed** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 2:59 pm

I think the main thing is, it's the same pressure only with the mask, you have to inhale to take in the air, and with the pillows, it gets "injected" directly into the nasal passage, making it feel stronger when you use the pillow types.

I think Sleepless has it right. The pillow system is 'injecting' the air right into your nares -no possibility of your nares collapsing at all whereas with the Activa, as you inhale, your nares can collapse some.

The pressure in the sealed circuit (providing you don't have a big leak) is the same no matter what. Use which ever mask feels best for you!

ProfessorSleep · Post by **ProfessorSleep** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 3:11 pm

WillSucceed wrote:
The pressure in the sealed circuit (providing you don't have a big leak) is the same no matter what. Use which ever mask feels best for you!.

Thanks, WS - Your username, by the way, has been a source of inspiration to me! I am determined to make this work, and don't want to do anything to mess up the results. I appreciate your input.

Sleepless on LI · Post by **Sleepless on LI** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 3:14 pm

Professor,

More than just WillSucceed's name is inspirational about him. He is one of THE sources of accurate information on this site. There are quite a few people whose knowledge and input you can take to the bank. He is one of them.

ProfessorSleep · Post by **ProfessorSleep** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 6:31 pm

Sleepless on LI wrote:Professor,

More than just WillSucceed's name is inspirational about him. He is one of THE sources of accurate information on this site. There are quite a few people whose knowledge and input you can take to the bank. He is one of them.

I've noticed there are a lot of good sources of information here. I'll be joining the group and hope someday to be of help to others. Something about going through all this makes you an advocate for others. I know I've been very glad you all were there to read your experiences and get up the nerve to get much needed treatment myself. Thanks -

Sleepless on LI · Post by **Sleepless on LI** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 6:38 pm

Professor Sleep

One of the best times comes when you are able to give back a small piece of what you have taken from this site. Guess that's why I have so many posts already. You will learn so much here that soon you will be able to help the newcomers with their concerns and questions, and it will feel just as great to you as it does to me.

Good luck with your treatment. And welcome aboard.

ProfessorSleep · Post by **ProfessorSleep** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:46 pm

OK, I'm official now! For 20 years I put of (make that fought bitterly) joining this "club." Now I understand the seriousness of sleep apnea, the perils of sleep deprivation, and most of all, that I am not alone! Thank you for your assistance and your good wishes. This looks like a great community - gee, think about all those poor folks who don't have the privilege of belonging!

Sleepless on LI · Post by **Sleepless on LI** » Sat Sep 10, 2005 7:54 pm

Professor,

You sound like a wonderful addition to the club. Welcome!!!

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