Thanks so much for the responses to my question!
Bob3000 wrote:The Swift FX primarily pulls up against the nose, but there is a little pressure upon the upper lift. Seems quite minimal to me. The Headrest Nasal Pillows mask would put zero pressure on your upper lip, but in my experience it's a LOT louder than the Swift FX, and has a bulkier positioning system.
The Headrest nasal pillows mask is actually the
only nasal/nasal pillows mask that I've tried that doesn't put too much pressure on my upper lip. (I have an overbite, and my teeth there are a concern.) I think I've tried
just about every ResMed/Respironics mask (which are the only brands my local DME stocks)! The Activa LT would be the perfect mask for me, except that it puts too much pressure on my upper lip, even with the bottom straps very loose. I've not had any luck with the full face masks either--tried a number of them, in various sizes. They pull my lower jaw too far back because I have to wear the bottom straps so tight to prevent leaks, which causes large clusters of apneas when I'm on my back.
I'm tired of spending money on masks that don't work out! And I know I'm not alone in my frustration. I think what I'll do is wait a few months, until my insurance will cover another mask, and try on the Swift FX and EasyLife nasal at my local DME. They don't sell the AEIOMed Headrest, so if I want to continue with that one over time, I'd have to pay for it out of pocket. So my search for a suitable ResMed/Respironics mask continues....
Again, thanks for your help. I realize that mask fit and preference is a
very individual thing, but if anyone does have a suggestion for a nasal pillows mask that doesn't put any pressure on the upper lip, I'm all ears--ResMed or Respironics preferred, since those are covered 80% by my insurance.
~ DreamOn