Nasal Pillow Irritating Nose

[roudabushmc]

Any advice on getting a good fit from Nasal pillows (using Swift FX currently), I am not getting leaks but my nose gets as sore as all get out right around the nostrils and cartridge separating the nostrils.

I have tried medium and large pillows with similar results (large hurt the nostrils less but gave me phantom leaks) and played with strap tension from giving myself a headache to falling off if I moved. Middle ground there feels right. Any advice on how to get some relief would be greatly appreciated. I have seen petroleum jelly recommended but thought that would degrade the silicone pillow so haven't tried it.

[green wings]

Lots of people on this forum use lanolin cream. I use avocado oil. I've found that I need just enough for a protective barrier on the underside of my nose. Too much and the pillows start slipping around.

It seems to be difficult to get perfectly even tension on both sides of the headgear, plus there is probably some movement of the nasal pillows when we inhale and exhale. It definitely adds up to a sore nose for lots of people if they don't use some sort of lubrication.

[icyura10]

There's also a product called AYR.. it's a nonreactive, nearly inert saiine gel with a little Aloe Vera in it.

A very thin film, like green wings indicated works.

BTW, you can get this at your pharmacy or places like wallyworld (usually a lot cheaper)

[roudabushmc]

Thanks for the advice, I'll stop by the pharmacy tonight on the way home to see if I can find either. In the meantime keep the ideas coming, my nose will thank you with all its...ummm...heart

[holden4th]

Many make the mistake of having the nasal pillow/mask too snug. It's OK to have it slightly loose.

For what it's worth, I initially had this problem, treated it with vaselne and it went away after a few days never to return (I hope).

[lab rat]

try the P10

[gargoyle999]

try the P10

I've just started using a CPAP with the P10 two nights ago and have the sore nose issue when I wake up. I have a 'big' head and wonder if it is slightly too tight since it is not adjustable? I've just ordered some Ayr though so will give that a try.

[MitchS]

I've just started using a CPAP with the P10 two nights ago and have the sore nose issue when I wake up. I have a 'big' head and wonder if it is slightly too tight since it is not adjustable? I've just ordered some Ayr though so will give that a try.

I have to pull the top strap on the P10 almost to my forehead and the bottom strap down until it just touches my ears to get the mask loose enough. The AYR will probably help with the sore nose.

[chill]

Thanks pupcamper! I had managed to remember the P10 instructions backwards and kept wondering why they made the strap so small. This should help!

[PaulaO2]

The Ayr gel stuff is fantastic. I use it if I have a cold and my nose is sore from rubbing it all day.

Just don't get it confused with the menthol stuff your partner got. Did that once in the middle of the night. Wow. Found out I could dance.

And yes, try loosening it instead of tightening it.

Or try another mask. I used the Swift LT for years and switched to the Nuance. Love it. Not a fan of the P10 due to teh stoopid headgear. There's others out there.