[Equipment] Concerning Masks...

[mimel]

I have had my CPAP for about a year. Started with a nasal pillows mask because full face felt too confining. Was inconsistent with it, and switched to full face because my mouth kept opening (yes, I tried the velcro straps for the jaw, didn't work. Full face is better, but sometimes I feel claustrophobic / can't get enough air. This leads to almost panic-attack reactions on my part. If I'm tired enough to fall asleep quickly, it works out OK. If I'm awake thinking, then its not good. Any ideas out there for what to do next?

Kind Regards,
Matt

[PaulaO2]

There's a lot of different chin straps. Some look fairly simple and others seem more advanced.

Which mask are you currently using?

[zonk]

Hi Matt welcome aboard
Try a nasal mask as its not as claustrophobic as full face mask or invasive as nasal pillows mask. Mask is a personal thing everyone one is different. Aciva LT nasal mask works well for me but might be a torture for you or someone else. Good luck in your search for the right mask

[JudgeMental]

You might mention this to your MD and ask him to give you a prescription for a sleep med. Another option is to try Melatonin, which can be purchased cheaply OTC at local pharmacy.. Works well for most.

[Sleepster]

Full face is better, but sometimes I feel claustrophobic / can't get enough air. This leads to almost panic-attack reactions on my part. If I'm tired enough to fall asleep quickly, it works out OK. If I'm awake thinking, then its not good. Any ideas out there for what to do next?

How long have you been using the full face mask? Are you committed to wearing it whenever you're sleeping? The reason I ask is because you've got to get it out of your mind that the mask is an option. Without it you lead a miserable sleep-deprived life and die early due to a heart attack or stroke.

When you awake and feel panic, and have to take the mask off, get out of bed and read. Take some benadryl, and when you feel sleepy again, put the mask back on and try to go back to sleep.

After a while you'll get used to the mask and the panic will subside.

[PaulaO2]

Or wear it during the day while reading or watching television. With the machine on, of course. It will fit differently when you are sitting up that when you are laying down but it still helps a lot.

[archangle]

If at all possible, resist ripping the mask off when you wake up in a panic. Consciously breathe deeply. Feel the air flowing to reassure yourself that the air is flowing. Breathe enough to hyperventilate. Put your hand in the airstream from the exhaust vent.

Look at the pressure on the display of the CPAP machine and note what it is.

Pull up the edge of the mask and feel the air blasting out around the edge. If it helps you psychologically, lift up the mask without taking it off and breathe around it.

You may simply be still having apenas and need more pressure.