05-02-2024, 11:43 AM
Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
Hi All! I started CPAP therapy about a month ago, using AirFit F30i mask with auto pressure 8-16. The first night of using the mask, I struggled with the seal but was able to resolve rather easily EXCEPT at hight pressures. As soon as I hit about 13, my mask starts to leak/fart significantly on either one/both sides of my mouth. I have tried everything and have been super cognizant of not over-tightening. Fast forward to this week, I decided I wanted to try a new mask as I was not tolerating the silicone tubes on the F30i - I got the F40. The first night with the F40 was horrible -- I could not get a good seal; farting on the sides of my mouth was much worse. A day later, my sleep dr, upped my pressure to 12-20, and the "farting" was severe. Due to these issues, I decided to switch back to the F30i last night to at least try to get some decent rest. Unfortunately, as soon as my pressure begins to increase, the issue was the same (although I will say it's much worse on the F40). I should also say, the severe leaks occur at these pressures with my mouth closed -- it is not only when jaw opens.
My inability to resolve this has had a significant impact on my health as I have neurological disease that is super impacted by sleep. I feel like I am about to lose my mind.
If anyone has the time and kindness to guide me through this, I would be extremely grateful. My sleep Dr and DME provide horrible care and are not concerned with attempting to assist, no matter my efforts. I am at wits end trying to resolve. Thank you all!
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
I'm sorry you are having trouble with leaks. New users often have a variety of things to adjust to at first. You might consider switching to a pillows mask. These sit gently on your nostrils and are much less vulnerable to leaking than full-face masks. Lots of people like the Airfit P10. Your mouth will be exposed, so if you mouth breathe you will probably need to use mouth tape to control mouth leaks. I tape my mouth and find it surprisingly comfortable, but it does seem like an odd solution at first. Best of luck with whatever you decide to do next!
Machine: ResMed AirCurve 10 Vauto
Mask: Bleep DreamPort Sleep Solution
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
Thanks so much for the suggestion. I failed to mention in original post that unfortunately, I have to do a full face mask due significant nasal issues...
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
I sure hope you find a full-face mask that works wonderfully for you. Good luck!
Machine: ResMed AirCurve 10 Vauto
Mask: Bleep DreamPort Sleep Solution
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
Perhaps you have the wrong size mask. I had difficulties with mask farts until I found out I was using the wrong size mask. When I switched to the correct size, the farts completely stopped.
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
I use a mouth guard when using my full face mask, seems to stop my chin from pulling back & dropping down.
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
I have used the Resmed Airtouch F20 full face mask. It is virtually impossible to have mask farts because the entire contact are of this mask is memory foam, not silicone. If you try it, don't make it too tight. It is normal for some air to expel through the memory foam. Good luck and sleep well.
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
I use mask liners. At times at night, my ventilator goes from 10 epap to 22 ipap. No mask farts. Quiet. They are relatively inexpensive and may be worth a try on your FFM (I use a FFM also). I like the thinner liners better than the thicker ones also.
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RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
If you have OSCAR charts we would be happy to try to help. Many times the pressure does not need to be raised. To get a good result. With the charts we could see why your pressure is going so high.
05-08-2024, 05:03 PM
(This post was last modified: 05-08-2024, 05:06 PM by Toodeloo83.)
RE: Desperate to resolve Mask Farts (New User with serious neurological complications))
Thank you! I have tried different size cushions and I think I’ve got the right size…
Thank you! I have a lovely liner from pad a cheek. If I don’t wear the liner, the leakage is much worse!
Thanks so much for the offer! When I have better executive functioning, I will upload data (I haven’t yet figured out how).
I didn’t start recording data until past couple weeks, after high pressure settings and high leaks.