Mask Question -New to Forum

General Discussion on any topic relating to CPAP and/or Sleep Apnea.
Bokes
Posts: 8
Joined: Sun Dec 19, 2010 8:44 am
Location: Ann arbor, MI

Mask Question -New to Forum

Post by Bokes » Sun Dec 19, 2010 9:14 am

Hi,

Great information here - better than DME! I have been on CPAP about 6 months. 2 sleep studies at U of M - AHI 30- machine setting 12 and I ramp up from 3.

I started with FF mask since I was concerned about ability to breathe out of my mouth - FF mask was cumbersome as I toss/turn and created leaks. Also, I realized that breathing only from nose was not an issue. DME then provided Zest nasal mask ( and chin strap which I no longer use)- seemed better but now realize it is very loud when I inhale and exhale and also leaks unless I really clamp it down very tight. I am considering going to nasal pillow. They seem popular on here- any recommendations.

Thanks for any feedback.

_________________
Mask: Swift™ FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear
Additional Comments: Previously used ResMed Quattro FF Mask, Zest Nasal

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DoriC
Posts: 5214
Joined: Sat Sep 13, 2008 9:28 pm
Location: NJ

Re: Mask Question -New to Forum

Post by DoriC » Sun Dec 19, 2010 11:28 am

Welcome, Sounds like you're a mouth breather and you would do better with a FF mask. Masks should not have to be clamped down. Finding the right mask can take some trial and error. You can also do a search here for special "bed pillows" which help with leaks. Do you have software to monitor your nightly data? IMO that's essential. Keep us posted.

_________________
Mask: Mirage Quattro™ Full Face CPAP Mask with Headgear
Additional Comments: 14/8.4,PS=4, UMFF, 02@2L,
"Do or Do Not-There Is No Try"-"Yoda"
"We are what we repeatedly do,so excellence
is not an act but a habit"-"Aristotle"
DEAR HUBBY BEGAN CPAP 9/2/08

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Lizistired
Posts: 2835
Joined: Tue Dec 14, 2010 10:47 pm
Location: Indiana

Re: Mask Question -New to Forum

Post by Lizistired » Sun Dec 19, 2010 11:42 am

I tried a mask during my titration and couldn't get to sleep with it. Had leaks with it too. After an hour and a half, I asked to switch to the Swift FX and went right to sleep. Only had to adjust it once(loosened). I'm only only on day 2 and the first night took some getting used to but last night was a breeze. I've clocked 7+ hours both nights. It's small, light and comfortable. Just my opinion though.

_________________
Humidifier: S9™ Series H5i™ Heated Humidifier with Climate Control
Additional Comments: Swift FX sometimes, CMS-50F, Cervical collar sometimes, White noise, Zeo... I'm not well, but I'm better.

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msradar65
Posts: 841
Joined: Fri Sep 03, 2010 11:36 am
Location: In the Carolina's

Re: Mask Question -New to Forum

Post by msradar65 » Sun Dec 19, 2010 11:44 am

I would recommended the Swift LT or LT for her. Its the only nasal pillow mask I use. I have had no problems with it.
Diagnosed 08/31/10. Titration 9/02/10. Started CPAP 11/01/10. Auto mode 10-15cm. Alternate mask GoLife for her. Back up mask Full-life full face w/Pad-a-cheek mask liner. Comtec CMS F50 wrist pulse oximeter. Sobakawa Cloud Pillow, Sleepyhead software

brazospearl
Posts: 704
Joined: Sun Nov 15, 2009 5:51 pm

Re: Mask Question -New to Forum

Post by brazospearl » Sun Dec 19, 2010 12:33 pm

Welcome to the forum, Bokes! Choosing the right mask is key to effective therapy, and it's sort of like finding the perfect shoes--what works for one won't necessarily work for another. Also, hose management and bed pillows can make a real difference. That said, I love my Hybrid mask--it's the best of nasal pillows and full face mask in one. Good luck on your search!