Erratic Leak Rates....

[Patrish42]

Hi all.  I have been using a CPAP since April 2022 and this is my first post.  My machine is a ResMed AirSense 11 with pressure range of 5-15.  I've tried the nose cradles (N30i), full face (F30i), and for the past 6-8 weeks have been using the nasal prongs (P30i).  I had an easy adjustment (in general) to CPAP usage, but my main issue currently is wildly erractic leak rates, as per the MyAir app.  They range from 6 to 30, and I have no idea what is driving the variation.  I have changed a number of variables such as size of prongs (small and medium), I have tightened the straps, loosened the straps, used a brand new set of head gear and replacement prongs, tried "prepping" my nostrils with alcohol wipes, tried applying lanolith cream, using the machine's setting which allows you to test your mask seal, etc., etc., etc.!!  There is no rhyme or reason (that I have been able to discern) as to the fluctuating leak rates.  Other details: (1) I found that I open my mouth at night, and after trying cervical collars and 3 types of chin straps, I finally arrived at using tape on my mouth which works well. (2) I am not a restless sleeper: I lay down on my back, fall asleep within a short time, and don't toss and turn.  I wake up each morning (still on my back) with the tape in place and the prongs in place with no apparent leaks from  nose or mouth.  So.....to all you long-term CPAP users: any idea of what I am missing   ???  Any tips or tricks you use to get a consistently good mask seal with minimal leaks?  It's driving me slightly crazy   !!!

Thanks for any feedback.

[unidee]

I used P30i, because it was comfortable. But large leaks were 50 - 70 % of sleeping time. I asked what causes this. Somebody answered that maybe I open my mouth when sleeping. I  bought chin strap. Some nights it reduced large leaks to 40 %.

Then I changed to F30. This is perfect to me. Not so comforbale than P30i but suitable to me. It is full face mask but it covers only nose and mouth. And the large leaks redused in many nithgs under 1 % of time. Some nights 0,01 % !

[clownbell]

To me, it is an open question as to whether they are mouth leaks or mask leaks. Get OSCAR and post hear so the experts can evaluate and advise. Otherwise everybody is guessing. Of course ratchick is relating her own personal experience, and that is valid, but may not apply to OP's personal situation.