Permanent mask mark

[lisabelle]

I have two dents on my cheeks from the straps of my nasal pillows.  I have not worn my mask for 48 hours and there has been no change on the dents. Is this permanent?

[Crimson Nape]

Hi lisabelle! -
Two ideas come to mind.
1. Increase your water intake. This can be a sign of dehydration.
2. Try searching for "CPAP Strap Covers". These covers go over the mask straps and provide a larger area of contact. This will spread out the strap pressure.
- Red

[UnicornRider]

I agree with Red, Hydration is very important, grab a pinch of flesh on the back of your forearm, pull it up and hold for ~5 seconds. Let go. it should totally relax and return to normal level & color almost immediately. If your skin takes more than a count of "One " to return to the normal level and color is no longer blanched, you are probably dehydrated.

  After turning off your *PAP machine in the morning, drink a tall glass of water first thing (at least 12 fluid ounces), then ensure you drink a tall glass (12 ounces) every two hours until 3 hours before bedtime. Then restrict fluid intake to that necessary to take your evening pills. That will minimize night time pee breaks. It may take several days to rehydrate your body if this has been going on for awhile.

   The CPAP Strap Covers do help, I use them.


    Any questions, concerns or doubts about your CPAP therapy, let us know.

   If you need help in filling out your profile, do not be afraid to ask.

[lisabelle]

I am very hydrated, that is why I’m concerned.  I don’t understand why after 72 hours these dents have not changed at all.

[SarcasticDave94]

Are you tending to wear the mask tight?

[Jay51]

A quick stop - gap measure would be to put a band aid over that particular spot on your face or a piece of any kind of foam (and position the straps over the band aid or foam or even piece of gauze).

[HalfAsleep]

I wear Pad-a-Cheeks, and a few other designs on a big artsy craftsy online store.

If you have deep welts, perhaps you're hurting, too? Do you have issues with the mask that has caused you to make the straps super-tight? Also, do you sleep on your side, and the straps are digging in? Many different variables here.

[UnicornRider]

I am very hydrated, that is why I’m concerned.  I don’t understand why after 72 hours these dents have not changed at all.

Are you using a different mask that does not impinge upon the same area, or have you done without your PAP machine totally?

Either way 72 hours without additional pressure applied to that same area, may need to be looked at by medical professionals, as there may be some underlying issues.

I am also concerned if you have neglected your PAP for that long.

Do take care.