[Equipment] Mask advice please.

[Zomglawlz]

I'm recently diagnosed. I haven't gotten my machine or ask yet. But I'm looking for advice on masks. I know the machine will be either the S9 or PRS1.
I have a severe deviated septum that prevents me from breathing much through my nose and also is quite painful to even wear glasses on the bridge of my nose, so I'm concerned looking at most of the masks available. I know I need reconstructive surgery, but I won't be able to get it for a while while I deal with other medical issues.
I go in for my machine and mask in about 10 days. I've been eyeing the LifeFit, but I thought I'd ask for advice first before going in. I just need a mask that allows for mouth breathing and does not create pressure on the bridge of the nose.
Any recommendations?

[cbramsey]

Welcome to the forum!!! We are glad you joined us!!!

As to your question, there is a Wiki page that shows various types of masks. There may be something you might want to try.

It is not unusual to go through several masks until you find the right mask. You might want to ask your DME about their return policy.

[Bompa]

Hi Zom:

I can't personally advise you as what mask to get with your medical problems. There are others on here that might be able to.

When you go to wherever you're going to get your machine they should be able to advise you. Usually a supplier will let you try a mask for a few days and if you're not happy they'll exchange it for you.

Good luck with getting your machine etc. and keep us posted as to how you're doing.

Any more questions ...please just post them and we'll get back to you.

[PaulaO2]

There are the hybrid masks which are part nasal pillow, part full face mask since it also covers the mouth. There's the Mirage Liberty and one other, the name of which just went right out of my brain.

Then there's the oral mask called the Oracle. It fits like a SCUBA mouthpiece.

Don't get your hopes up for any one mask. Most of us went through several before we found the one that worked for us.

[zonk]

Total Face Mask covers the entire face, there are no pressure points around the nose to cause sores or skin breakdown
http://www.healthcare.philips.com/main/h...efault.wpd

There are full face masks such as F&P 431 which have a piece goes under the chin and Quattro FX without the forehead dial but really you have try for yourself to get an idea if going to work for you or not ... everyone is different

You want to make sure to get data capable machine so you and sleep specialist can monitor and optimize the treatment

Avoid any ResMed S9 machine with Escape in the name such as Escape and Escape Auto
AutoSet and Elite are data capable machines
The model name displayed next to power button

Avoid any PRS1 machine with Plus in the name and model numbers below 450/460
PRS1 Auto 550/560 and Pro 450/460 are data capable machines
The model numbers shown on the label stuck at the bottom of the machine

[trish6hundred]

Hi Zomglawlz,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
What everyone has said so far.
Don't be shy about asking for different masks 'til you find the one that works just right for you.
Best of luck with your CPAP therapy.

[Zomglawlz]

Thanks for the responses. It's a bit overwhelming trying to figure thus stuff out. I really hope I can find a mask that will work for my situation, it seems the selection will be limited.
I'm thinking I will have to get a total face mask to try first, just to avoid further damage to my nose.

I'm going back and forth on machines. I'm military, and they already told me who my DME supplier will be. I looked at their site for military. All they offer us are the S9 and PRS1 with data and humidifiers. I'm pretty sure they are all auto. I'll be sure to avoid the escape series.
I'm hoping for an easy to use machine that also gives me good info.

[iSnooze]

Welcome Zomglawiz,

Hopefully the technician you have when you pick up your machine and mask is patient and listens to your needs. Some DMEs are not very friendly. The person I had was wonderful and made sure my mask felt good and I knew how to use it before she signed me out. I was able to try on several masks. I hope you have the same experience.

Unfortunately getting the right mask is a lot of trial and error. I want to reinforce what others said about checking out the company's return policy.

For checking the data, there seems to be two options besides looking at your machine's tiny screen. You can find a description of each one at the following wiki page:
http://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.php...for_the_PC

Keep us posted on your machine and mask. I'm confident in saying that we are all pulling for you to get the right mask for your needs the first time and to feel better with cpap therapy.

[Sevensox]

Hi Zomglawlz
Could not help but notice your avatar. I retired in 1983 so been a while. Been on my CPAP for over 6 years now and can't imagine life without it. I assume your active duty?
Lee

[Zomglawlz]

Hi Zomglawlz
Could not help but notice your avatar. I retired in 1983 so been a while. Been on my CPAP for over 6 years now and can't imagine life without it. I assume your active duty?
Lee

Yes, I am active duty right now. Going on 17 years.