Mirage FX mask

Randy, I was speaking about the Mirage Activa Lt. to address the concern about leaks around the eyes.

Elle wrote:Randy, I was speaking about the Mirage Activa Lt. to address the concern about leaks around the eyes.

Ok sorry too many Mirages

I have been using an FX since before they were released (a clinician sample). I absolutely love it. It is still considered the highest-end pillow mask available (arguably).

That said, it IS a fussy mask to adjust. Too tight leaks. Too loose leaks. Lean toward the loose side, however. You have two adjustments: the top silicone band and the rear elastic band. You have to be precise and patient with the adjustments. Expect a week or so to dial it in. I would suggest 30 minutes or so at first to get the adjustment close. Start with a 'coarse' adjustment. Set the top and rear bands to be very comfortable, on the loose side. Count the notches on the top adjustment silicone band starting at the 'joint', right to left, with your finger. Record this. Test the mask in your normal sleeping position. If it leaks, adjust ONE of the bands. Test. Of course, when it stops leaking, quit adjusting and sleep on it. Repeat the next night, and the next. Work both bands one at a time. You WILL figure it out. Trust me.

My observations with the FX after it has been dialed in:

1. Pillow size is PARAMOUNT. Start with a medium, but do try all three sizes provided with your mask.
2. It likes fresh pillows. My definition of fresh is about three months. That works for me; your experience may differ.
3. It likes clean pillows.
4. It will tell you to replace your pillow when they begin to hurt or leak.
5. I am a right-side sleeper. When my FX begins to hurt, it is always the right nostril.
6. Don't just slap your mask on. Put it on, wait five minutes or so, let your pillow warm. Pre-warm your water. Finally, after about five minutes, adjust your pillow until you have no leaks. Adjust your body so you have no annoying exhaust. If you have an iPhone, download the Sleep Soundly app. Wonderfully hypnotic. Drops me like a stone every time. It's either free or real cheap. Sleep well.
7. Loose is better.
8. The FX should never hurt.
9. You will succeed if you're patient.
10. Once the mask is dialed in, NEVER remove or adjust the rear elastic band. At least until it gets old and begins to stretch out a bit.
11. When you adjust the elastic band, do so precisely. Use your thumb to mark the velcro tip. Adjust no more the 1/8" PER SIDE at one time. Keep the elastic balanced.
12. Play with the top and rear band adjustments. That's the trick to a perfect adjustment. It's way more art than science.
13. Most importantly, always remember your notches on the top silicone band. It will sometimes move from normal use or cleaning. Check it nightly.

Good luck. PM me if you have questions.

Once request: If anyone knows where to purchase the rear elastic band, I would dearly love the link. It is the only part that wears out on the FX, if you don't mind yellowish, perfectly serviceable silicone. The flex hose seems to last forever.

Al

akeegan wrote:Once request: If anyone knows where to purchase the rear elastic band, I would dearly love the link. It is the only part that wears out on the FX, if you don't mind yellowish, perfectly serviceable silicone. The flex hose seems to last forever.

Need to clarify something please. Original discussion was about the ResMed Mirage FX mask which is a mask that covers the nose but what you are describing (you mentioned pillows) sounds like the ResMed Swift FX nasal pillow mask and you show a ResMed Swift LT in your profile.
Are you wanting just the back strap (I've seen blue, pink, navy or gray) for the Swift FX nasal pillow mask system?
My Swift FX for Her came with 2 back straps (one in a sealed package). I can look to see if I still have an extra back strap still in the package if that is what you are wanting. I can't seem to find the strap alone offered for sale anywhere. EBay sometimes has some good deals on the head gear but they will include the silicone strap which like you say..lasts forever and just turns a bit yellow. Silicone does that when left out in the air for a while.

I did spot this on Ebay just now. $20 free shipping.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Resmed-Swift-FX ... 4600aa3c9b

Though they have some Buy it Now priced headgear which includes the silicone strap for around $30.

I use my Mirage FX with Fisher & Paykel Zest headgear. It works much better than the supplied stuff. You can use it with or without the thin plastic slider thing.

The Mirage FX would be great if it had a gimbal like the F&P Opus nasal pillows.

You're right, Pugsy. I rambled on about the Swift FX pillow. Oh well, maybe it will help someone.

Another question: My heating plate on my ResMed H4i humidifier is losing its plating in several areas. Still functional, just unsightly. Anybody have thoughts on a cost-effective solution?

Al