Help

yit · Post by **yit** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 12:39 pm

I have been using the Swift Mirage nasal pillow mask for about 9 months and now I seem to have developed an awful skin allergy on my face..short of going to the doctor..is there anything I can use to clear this up..I have been told use neosporin or antibiotic cream bought over the counter..I have also been told to get a new mask..which I cannot afford at this time..the insurance won't cover a new mask. Also I was reading on this forum that I should be cleaning my mask and hose with possibly vinegar and water..??
Any suggestions would be appreciated..My face looks horrible, I can't wear makeup and I'm just getting depressed about it all..
Of course, the company I bought it from is pushing to sell me a new mask..
I have used neosporin for 2 days now and there is little indication of the rash subsiding.
Please help...
Yit

WillSucceed · Post by **WillSucceed** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 1:00 pm

You might need to talk to your Dr. about a steroid cream.

Sleepless on LI · Post by **Sleepless on LI** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 8:37 pm

yit,

What makes you believe it's from the Swift? Where exactly is the rash? Is it irritation perhaps from the straps or is it under your nose, around your nares maybe? Are you usually an allergic type who has very sensitive skin? This is the first time since I've been on this site since the end of May where I've heard anybody have an allergic reaction to the Swift, NOT THAT IT CAN'T HAPPEN. I just wonder if it truly is mask-related or something entirely separate and apart.

I think Will has it right when he says you should seek the advice of a medical professional. I would before treating it with any OTC creams and the like so he can see what it looks like before you alter it in any way. Sorry you're going through this. Let us know how you make out, please.

Jan in Colo. · Post by **Jan in Colo.** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:24 pm

Professional advice is definitely what you need. After that though, cortisone creams are good for rashes. But only AFTER you see the doc...they need to see exactly what is going on and any creams you use will mask the symptoms and make diagnosis difficult.

Jan in Colo.

Sleepless on LI · Post by **Sleepless on LI** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 9:27 pm

they need to see exactly what is going on and any creams you use will mask the symptoms and make diagnosis difficult.

Exactly. Like trying to diagnose via blood work when you already starting taking the antibiotics beforehand.

Fatigue Fighter · Post by **Fatigue Fighter** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 11:18 pm

Since you have been using the Swift for 9 months and nothing like a rash has happened until now, I suspect it is something else, and a doctor's visit is in order. Who knows, maybe you have a heat rash or you used something different in the cleaning of your mask? Please visit your doctor on this one. I remember looking at a rash my daughter had and thought it was the measles. Turned out to be poison oak! That was a two-week nightmare cause she needed steroids.

FF

rock and roll · Post by **rock and roll** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 11:38 pm

I have a suggestion that you might try that will show if it truly is an allergic reaction. That is to take Benedryl in a strong dose I weigh 240 and I take four for an allergic reaction and keep taking every four hours for a day or two and see if you don't get some relief. If that does not help, I doubt it's allergy related. Good Luck! I hope you figure it out.

Fatigue Fighter · Post by **Fatigue Fighter** » Fri Sep 16, 2005 11:51 pm

Oh yes! Benadryl reduces inflammation and, subsequently, can relieve itching. Good point Rock and Roll.

However, If your rash doesn't go away overnight....see a doctor.

FF

OldSeaRock · Post by **OldSeaRock** » Sat Sep 17, 2005 6:41 pm

If you take enough Benadryl you won't care about your rash... .

Seriously, Benadryl is good stuff as R&R pointed out. I'd give them a whirl.

momexp5 · Post by **momexp5** » Sat Sep 17, 2005 7:48 pm

Are you maybe allergic to the soap you use to wash your mask? Have you switched soaps?

If not, I'd just cough up the money and switch masks, see if you can get one that's made of a different material.

Sorry if I sound cavalier. Brain is gone.