How to select Right CPAP Mask?

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) masks and headgear are available in many sizes and designs to simply treat your anti snoring. Everybody has different needs and face shapes, so you might want to research numerous CPAP masks prior to buying the healthy. If you've been a specific size from in a single manufacturer CPAP mask that does not mean you will be exactly the same size on other occasions.

Here's review of a couple of CPAP masks and possible advantages of each. Work carefully together with your physician and CPAP mask supplier to make certain there's a mask that fits your needs and suits you.

Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks

CPAP Nasal Pillows are becoming very popular in the last few years. Like nasal masks they are recommended for use by patients who sleep utilizing their mouths closed and may exhale using the nares. Nasal pillows are very small in proportions and possess two flexible pieces, similar two a mushroom cap. The pillows fit gently to the nostrils and connect to have an adaptor that fastens for the CPAP tubing. Rather of wearing a triangular mask that rests round the upper lip, nose, or cheekbones. Users that are suffering from allergy symptoms to interface materials, claustrophobia, patients with mustaches and beards additionally to the people who've a narrow nose bridge and shorter faces normally prefer nasal pillows with a mask because the pillows don't rest around the above pointed out stated areas.

Innovative devices are actually produced for patients requiring positive ventilation therapy that allows the customer freedom to speak, eat, drink, and set on eyeglasses without detaching the device. The under nose reservoir lies within the patient's upper lip while using nasal inserts located in patient's nares. The tubing drapes easily inside the patient's ears similar to what nasal cannula, thus stabilizing the under nose reservoir while using very lightweight "Y" coupling that rests round the patients chest, eliminating the requirement of uncomfortable straps and headgear. A Cushion Mask will often have a sturdy plastic frame that sports ths soft nasal pillow cushions that attaches to adjustable headgear.

If you have been prescribed a CPAP setting of 10 cmh20 or greater, CPAP Nasal Pillows aren't recommended. Experienced CPAP users agree a Nasal Mask can be a convenient option.

Nasal Pillow Advantages:
Nasal pillows would be the least bulky method of delivering CPAP, and could certainly be the greatest option for individuals who sleep on their own tummy. As there's no mask within the bridge from the nose, glasses could be worn with nasal pillows. This, plus a better visual view because of reduced bulk imply that patients who choose to see or view television although using CPAP frequently such as this design. Nasal pillows don't depend on the seal being created round the face, so if you're a really ‘active’ sleeper they might work very well. They're also the only real effective option for patients with hair on your face.

Nasal Pillow Drawbacks: 
The needed air is blown directly up in to the nostrils like a jet. If your ruthless of CPAP is required, this is often uncomfortable for that patient. Along with the sense of a jet of air hitting the rear of the nose, nasal pillows may cause drying from the nose as well as nosebleeds. Just like nasal masks, it isn't really your best option of mouth breathers, although again nasal pillows can often be supplied with a face strap to inspire the jaw to remain shut and breathing with the nose. 

Nasal CPAP Masks

Nasal CPAP Masks are the most used masks employed by CPAP patients. They are cake and rest gently inside the nose, supported having a brow strap in addition to pad that rest within the eyebrow giving added stability. In situation your CPAP setting is 10 cmh20 and more nasal CPAP Mask is recommended. The Nasal Mask is suggested for CPAP users that sleep utilizing their mouths closed and may exhale using the nares. The Nasal Mask is easy to use and cozy while offering a ongoing stream of pressurized air that keeps the user’s airway from collapsing, thus minimizing the potential for apneas. The smaller sized sized interface is often preferred greater than a Full Breathing Filter. Patients that uncover the Nasal pillows uncomfortable at greater pressures will uncover Nasal Masks to supply a much more comfortable and beneficial Sleep Therapy Treatment.

A Nasal Mask will often have a sturdy plastic frame that supports a light nasal pillow that attaches to adjustable headgear.

Remember, while you don't mouth breathe, you'll probably still be experiencing mask leaks. Any leak can lead to decreased treatment effectiveness and for that reason create signs and signs and symptoms of poor therapy and health. Speak using one of our associates today if you feel a leak.

Nasal Mask Advantages:
Nasal masks are less bulky than full goggles. They might be better tolerated by those who are claustrophobic - even though some don't like the contact between your mouth and nose across the upper lip. Nasal masks is capable of extremely high CPAP pressures without causing discomfort. Nasal masks come in a multitude of different sizes and shapes so many people can look for a mask which inserts them perfectly.

Nasal Mask Drawbacks:
Nasal masks continue to be quite bulky, and could not work nicely for tummy sleepers. Because the mask fits within the bridge from the nose, it can't be worn with glasses, so individuals who prefer to read or view television before you go to bed might not such as this design. Additionally, individuals with hair on your face will discover the mask cannot produce a seal same goes with not work nicely, If a person suffers with breathlessness using your nose, this won't be the best option for you personally, because the air is delivered only with the nose.

Full Face CPAP Mask

CPAP Full Breathing Filter Sizing Guide Full Face CPAP Masks cover your nose and mouth. In the event you mouth breathe and also have mouth leaks, a complete Breathing Filter provides you with a number of benefits greater than a nasal mask. An entire breathing filter prevents air loss that could compromise treatment, and supply a solution to dry throat and nose problems. In the event you mouth breathe and also have leaks, you will not be receiving your full treatment pressure getting a Nasal Mask, consequently you will possibly not obtain the entire benefits of your Sleep Therapy Treatment.

An Entire Breathing Filter will often have a sturdy plastic frame that supports a light inner cushion by utilizing minimal pressure rest in the face. Your brain gear could be acquired with with handful of points of contact for the face or with brow straps.

Remember, while you don't mouth breathe, you'll probably still be experiencing mouth and mask leaks. Any leak can lead to decreased treatment effectiveness and for that reason create signs and signs and symptoms of poor therapy and health. Speak using one of our associates today if you feel a leak.

Full Face Mask Advantages:
Full goggles would be the only CPAP masks to provide air with the mouth so might be ideal for those who have breathlessness through their nose - for example individuals with frequent nasal infections or perhaps a deviation from the nasal septum (cartilage ‘wall’ that runs lower within the center of the nose). Full goggles will also be excellent for those who need high CPAP pressure as air is channelled through both nose and also the mouth.

Full Face Mask Drawbacks:
This is actually the greatest kind of CPAP nose and mouth mask. Many people might not such as the bulky nature from the design - particularly individuals who sleep on their own tummy, or individuals who have a tendency to feel claustrophobic. Due to its size it must produce a seal within the largest area, and may therefore be more prone to leak. Particularly quite a few users find they might obtain a leak round the bridge from the nose, which enables air to circulate up about the eyes resulting in the eyes to dry up. Hair on your face a beard or mustache) will probably steer clear of the mask developing a great seal.

Deciding on a CPAP Mask

Below is list of CPAP Mask manufacturers we personally work with and can honestly comment on their strengths and weaknesses:

• Phillips Respironics
• ResMed
• DeVilbiss
• Hans Rudolph

 Don't choose your CPAP by cost. This is not a good way to pick a mask that you will be wearing night after night. In no way will the price indicate just how the mask will contour for the face or perform to suit your needs.

If you are getting difficulty purchasing a mask that will best suit your needs, a CPAP expert could be acquired to help assist you to. 1-877-774-9271.

It's recommended that individuals are first intended for a CPAP mask someplace, sleep physician or sleep center. If you are thinking about sizing yourself you might like to have a very friend measure too. Two exact measurements can be better than one! A highly effective fitting mask is a lot more important when compared to a CPAP machine full of features. In situation your mask is dripping, you are not receiving quality sleep therapy. A great mask, inside the correct size, provides you with a restful sleep plus a more profitable tomorrow. We offer a mask sizing self-help guide to measure on your nose in addition to face however you'll find slight variations in sizes between manufacturers and models. Call us assistance on the phone 1-877-774-9271 or by email sales@amsrco.com. Please make time to measure correctly. We do not accept returns on opened up up masks. We have no mask exchange policy. A mask can be a personal item that's worn just by one individual. Whenever a mask package is opened up up, it's really no longer resalable and then we will not give a refund or exchange.

This is often a guide that may help you pick the correct size mask system. There is no guaranty on mask sizing with these details. No refunds will be provided on any "opened up up" mask purchase. Measure carefully. Actual Sizing templates are available by e-mail or download. We'd happily hand back one! (Specify full face or nasal mask template)

Measuring Diagrams

NASAL MASK: Measure your actual nose size from top to bottom and side to side.
(NOTE: Some masks only come in a few sizes, so you will have to choose the closest one)

• Petite: 1.5" tall, 1.5" wide
• Small: 1.75" tall, 1.5" wide
• Medium-Small: 2" tall, 1.5" wide
• Medium Wide: 1.75" tall, 2" wide
• Medium: 2" tall, 1.75" wide
• Large: 2.25" tall, 2" wide
• Large Narrow: 2.5" tall, 1.5" wide
• Shallow: 2" tall, 1.75" wide, 1.25" deep or less
• Standard: 1.75" to 2" tall, 1.75" wide

FULL FACE MASK: Measure straight down from the middle of your pupil to just below the lower lip. It may help to imagine a horizontal line extended from your lower lip to beneath your eye, so that you can measure straight down from your pupil.
1. Measure the width of your mouth in a natural position. (i.e. not smiling)
2. Make sure top fits at bridge of nose, and bottom covers mouth completely.

• Small: 3.25" tall, 2.75" wide
• Medium: 3.5" tall, 3.25" wide
• Large: 4.25" tall, 3.25" wide

HANS RUDOLPH FULL FACE: Measure from top of nose to bottom of chin.

• Petite: 3.5" tall
• Extra Small: 4" tall
• Small: 4.25" to 4.5" tall
• Medium: 4.5" to 5" tall
• Large: 5" tall

  
 

CPAP Mask Fit and Adjustment

Once you have chosen your CPAP mask and style that best fits your unique facial contour, you will need to make the adjustments needed for a proper fit before your first slap therapy. Try sitting on the side of your bed, turn your CPAP machine on and place the mask on your face with the straps loose. Position yourself in bed as you would any other evening. With your head on the pillow, slowly and gently pull the straps to the point that feels comfortable and no leaks are present. Be patient it may take a few attempts but you will get it!

Maintenance of your CPAP Mask

The standard treatment for sleep apnea is a CPAP machine. When you first begin to use CPAP, there is often a degree of information overload. The maintenance needed for the care of your CPAP machine is minimal yet important in maintaining good health, sleep therapy and long life of your machine.
Cleaning your CPAP Mask:

1. Unplug the CPAP machine.

2. Disconnect the mask in the CPAP tubing. When the mask includes a headgear, remove it. Remove any tubing from the connectors, the humidifier, or in the CPAP machine itself, whether it connects directly.

3. If there's an air humidifier unit, take it out of the CPAP machine, and separate it into its pieces.

4. Have a cloth and wet it with tepid to warm water. Lightly wipe lower the exterior top of the CPAP unit.

5. Fill a sink or tub with tepid to warm water. Add a tiny bit of antibacterial soap.

6. Submerge the mask, headgear, tubing within the warm soap and water and let it soak for any about half an hour. Furthermore, wipe the mask having a cloth and tepid to warm water, and employ soap and water using the tubing. Air dry all components on the towel.

7. After all things have dried, reassemble everything. Use the headgear towards the mask, hook the mask back to the tubing, and fasten the tubing into the CPAP machine. Turn the device on briefly and listen for just about any air leaks.

Strategies for Cleaning your Mask:

1. Keep the equipment clean.

2. If you've been sick lately, clean your equipment more frequently.

3. Stick to the advice of the medical providers along with the manufacturers instructions to clean your CPAP equipment.

4. Never use cleaning solutions apart from antibacterial soap.

5. Don't clean your mask inside a dishwasher or washer.

What You Need to Clean your CPAP Mask

• CPAP mask, headgear, tubing, humidifier
• Soft cloth/towel
• Warm tap water
• Antibacterial soap
• Kitchen sink, or tub

Embarrassment
Your CPAP machine is only useful if it is used! Unfortunately some people really struggle with the nightly routine of putting on the mask, particularly when they have a loved one who shares their bed. Like most issues the solution is communication. Be open with your partner about your feelings and ensure they know the importance of your treatment. They need to understand that the CPAP machine is literally extending your life. The more you talk about the machine and acknowledge its existence the faster you will get over your embarrassment over using it. Remember, it is better than snoring!

Redness or Sore Spots on Face after Use
This is a common problem because the sleep apnea sufferer is wearing a mask tight to their face all night long. This can causes indentations in the skin around where the mask is pressing against your face and it may cause red sore spots where those pressure points exist. While most modern masks handle this pretty well there are a few things you can do:

• Loosen your straps slightly so that they are not too tight. Make sure that your mask is still snug enough to prevent air leaks, but not so tight that it hurts your skin.
• Consider buying pads that slip over your straps. Talk to your CPAP expert about options.
• Talk to your CPAP expert about trying a mask that will mold to the shape of your face.

Acne
In addition to the sore spots where the mask presses against your face you may also find that you develop acne at the same spots. You can help eliminate this problem by making sure your mask is clean. It is recommended that you wash it with a mild detergent every week and every night before you put your mask on wipe your face and mask. This will help prevent acne from appearing.
Red eyes continue snoring or stop breathing during sleep

If your partner reports that you are still snoring or stopping to breathe while sleeping or if you wake up with red eyes these are signs that your mask is not fitted properly and that air is leaking out. Here are some tips to address this problem:
• Adjust the straps and headgear on your mask to obtain a better fit.
• If you have had your mask for a while, check to make sure that it is not worn or torn.
• You may need to try a different size mask.
• A different type of mask may work better for you. Either a full face mask or nasal pillows may eliminate the air leaks.
• Talk to your doctor or CPAP expert about trying a mask that will mold to the shape of your face.

Nasal stuffiness is the most common side effect of CPAP therapy. You may also have a runny, itchy or dry nose, or nosebleeds. Nasal congestion often goes away after your first month of use. Keep in mind that many people with OSA naturally have an increased level of nasal congestion. This congestion is more common in the winter and during allergy season. It is not always a result of CPAP. Talk to your doctor if your congestion is severe, or if you have nasal, sinus or ear pain. The best solution is to invest in a CPAP humidifier. If you are not currently using a humidifier call our CPAP experts to assist in providing you with a solution.

Trouble breathing against the pressure.
CPAP therapy is applying a continuous flow of positive airflow that you breathe against, both on inhale and on exhale. For some this can be a difficult adjustment even though it is the basis for the treatment. This really is just a matter of adjustment, getting used to the machine. One way to solve this problem is to use the CPAP machine at various times throughout the day, even when awake like while watching television. Another way to solve this problem is to utilize the ramp feature of your CPAP machine which starts the pressure low and then gradually increases it. Setting the ramp to peak at 20 minutes may help experienced users say that they are asleep by the time the maximum pressure hits.

Source: oxygenconcentratorstore