Mouth breathing on full face mask

[markndurham]

I just started CPAP therapy on Friday. I was given the AirFit F20 size large mask without an option to try other masks. I do like the headgear and the magnetic clips. I've been waking up during the night multiple times with a dry, open mouth and sometimes leaks around the lower part of the mask. I'm wondering if a medium would make this better since the bottom of the mask sits low on my chin? Should I consider a chin strap to wear with the full face mask?

[DeepBreathing]

G'day Mark. Welcome to Apnea Board.

Getting the right mask is often the most difficult thing about CPAP therapy. Every face is different, which is why there are so many makes and models on the market. It might be you'd be better off with a medium or even small mask - go to Resmed's F20 page and scroll down to Sizing. There is some information there, and you can download a printable template to help select the right size.

https://www.resmed.com/au/en/commercial-...t-f20.html

[Gideon]

I'll add that we have many Mask Sizing guides in the Mask Primer.
Should you (anyone) find one that is not there I'll add it.  Add a link to the manufactures sizing guide so I can find it.  (Manufacture links are OK)

Fred

[Hydrangea]

Ditto to the above. First and foremost is a mask that fits.

Although I was a mouth-breather pre-CPAP, I immediately became (mostly) a nose-breather with CPAP. So I use pillows, very happily. The nights when I've tried using a full face mask, I get a dry mouth if I mouth-breathe with it. One solution I've found is to up the humidity.

[markndurham]

I would agree. My first night I awoke with a terrible headache and stuffy nose. After adjusting the humidity way up, that problem did resolve.

[trish6hundred]

Hi markndurham,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
Good luck with CPAP therapy.
Hang in there for more responses to your post.

[markndurham]

I went an got a medium size mask and it fits much better. Thanks folks.

[Hydrangea]

Great!

[txrpls]

Being new to CPAP (3 weeks),  I experienced the same issues. I recently switched to a chinstrap in addition to the mask and that solved my dry mouth issues. I plan on switching to nasal pillows with the chinstrap due to some slobbering issues 

[markndurham]

I have a chin strap arriving today. Hopefully it will help. Since starting last week on CPAP ive had some belly pain/gas issues in addition to dry mouth. I think I’m swallowing air on my full face mask, though it has improved with a better fitting mask. I’m eager to try the chin strap.