[CPAP] I need help choosing a mask

[Sleeprider]

It's lavender? Wow! I feel pretty.

[parkerdt]

P10? Not a chance - doesn't work for me tossing and turning. Respironics Nuance? Far better headgear, and better sizing for me. Love mine! I use the fabric Nuance and not the silicone/gel Nuance Pro.

Good luck - the right mask is 95% of the battle - keep trying until you find what works for YOU!

Dave

[OMyMyOHellYes]

For some folks, nasal pillows (prongs) are a good solution, but by no means are they THE solution. (Folks, just because you love nasal pillows, or a particular brand/model, it does not mean it is THE solution. Please quit saying that. As cuzzin Jim is fond of saying,"Everyone has to work out their own salvation".) I personally do not like them. For me a nasal mask is an ideal solution - less felt pressure and on the model I use, no air exhausting on my face. For some, a full face mask is more better. Especially if their mouth gapes open while asleep.

OMMOHY

[green wings]

I am wanting to try a nasal pillows mask, but I am hesitant about having the hose routed downward.

I have a Wisp nasal mask now and really like having the hose go over my head. It doesn't get in my way when I turn to my side in my sleep. How do you handle avoiding the hose with a P10 mask?

Thanks.

[cate1898]

I have both the P10's and the PR DreamWear. I find the P10's stay on better for side sleeping. No need to adjust every time I turn over in bed, which is something I had to do with the DreamWear. I originally thought having the hose at the top of my head with the DreamWear was the be all and end all, but I don't find having the hose hanging down from the P10's to be a problem. Much better than having to readjust the nasal pillow on the DreamWear every time I move in bed. Leak rate is about the same on both for me.

[Casuco]

Thanks so much for all the replies and encouragement. I really need to get on this as my sleep sucks, big-time and I am still having daily headaches. I will check out the P10. I was about to give up on the whole thing. I have had people tell me that using the machine was a game changer for them in terms of how they feel. Definitely a challenge. I feel like a freak with my dental night guard and head gear and now ear plugs to drown out the noise! Argh!

[surferdude2]

BTW Casuco, In case you aren't aware, sleeping in the supine position usually makes apnea much worse. Some people with mild SA manage to do without CPAP by sleeping on their sides.

I too had a sleep lab diagnosis that didn't meet Medicare criteria for treatment and must buy my own equipment so I'm well aware of what you are going through.

FWIW, I use the Optilife nasal pillows mask. It's half the price of other nasal pillow masks and works quite well for me.

I Also have the Resmed Mirage Quattro and the Innomed Hybrid but neither of those worked well enough for me. They were uncomfortable and prone to leaking at any pressure above 8 cm H₂O unless the straps were tightened down to, what for me, was an uncomfortable level. Believe you me, I tried and tried but the treatment was worse than the affliction until I found the nasal pillows mask. I do have to use a chin strap to stop the air from escaping out of my mouth. YMMV

Edit: Also be aware that many suppliers offer masks on a guaranteed trial basis that allow you 30 days to return them for full credit if not satisfied. You only pay return shipping.

Dude