UMFFM leaking

I need some thoughts regarding mask leak rates. I have been on therapy since May of 2006. I have been very compliant since the outset and now have over 9000 hours on my CPAP equipment. I replaced my original RemstarAuto Tank Style blower with an M-Series Auto in March of this year. I have it set to CPAP mode @ 12cm and only use the auto feature for titrating for short periods.

I am still using my original mask (UMFFM) which is four years old. I have changed the cushion on it several times and the swivel elbow once. My insurance is maxed out and I can’t get any more coverage for new product until June of 2011. I am therefore trying to stretch out this equipment for another year if possible as I don’t want to pay for replacements out of pocket.

I have the Encore Pro software to track my therapy and have been doing so for three years. I download every week and chart the results on a spreadsheet. My AHI has ranged between 0.4 and 1.5 with an overall average of 0.65. The mask leak rate for my pressure of 12cm is supposed to be 40 lpm. I seldom experience any large leaks and if I do I attribute that to changing sleep positions and nudging the mask seal loose.

My mask leak used to be right around the expected 40 lpm rate. For the last 6 - 8 months though my leak rate has averaged between 40 to 45 lpm. Again very seldom are there any large leaks. I have tried all kinds of tweaks to adjust the straps and forehead piece and changed to new headgear to try and get back to the 40 lpm average leak rate.

My question is there a lifespan for the mask that is causing the leak rate to rise? Could this be why I can no longer attain the expected leak rate of 40 lpm for my pressure of 12cm?

If my AHI is remaining at the rate of 0.4 to 1.5 is the slightly increased leak rate anything to be concerned about as far as affecting the integrity of my reported numbers and the effeeffectivenessmy therapy? Again large leaks are very rare for me. Just how much of a leak does this increase represent (40 lpm average versus 45 lpm average). Try as I might I just can't seem to get back to 40 lpm that my mask is supposed to be at for a blower pressure of 12cm.

I should also mention that my routine has remained constant throughout this time period. I use a heated humidifier and wash the mask and my face nightly before bed. My hose is covered with a fleece sleeve. I have also tried not washing the cushion every night as was suggested by some here but noticed no difference in my numbers and have continued with washing the mask daily. I do not disassemble it just swish it in the sink with Dawn citrus dish soap and then rinse and let dry.

Any comments regarding the expected lifespan for the UMFFM and its ability to seal and just how much of a leak (4 to 5 lpm) represents in the overall leak rate would be appreciated.

ranman

Check your PMs.


Den

Padacheek has some products that are helpful for the UMFFM. The one that works best for me is the extra strap that secures the mask a bit more than the headgear straps. I use it every night and hook the back of the strap to the top of my headgear with a hair clip. It doesn't cost much, and it makes a real difference in my numbers

Irene