Need some advice

[kake26]

Hi all,

So let me prefix this with say I'm new here, but not to CPAP overall. Been on CPAP for a little over 2 years now. Though most of that was spent getting used the whole thing and sorting out allot of problems with little to no help. With a large amount of difficulty I have managed to at least get somewhere. So with that said let me get to the point. I'm really considering getting a different mask. My AirFit F20, I've made work decently well. With the addition of chin strap, a knights bridge dual band strap that puts pressure on your chin vertically, unlike others. I've also added a pad a cheek anti leak strap. Yeah, thats a whole lot of stuff, but it works. I've had very little support from the day I started getting my CPAP treatments in order. Partially due to a insurance thing where they no longer paid for follow ups. Obviously given the measures I take to make things work, I feel like I could be doing something better. Getting the mask straps properly set has also been a big pain in the rear. Either way I think I'm definitely over tightening things. This is whats leading me to want a new mask, but I'm not sure what I should look for out for. I'm a mouth breather hence the chin strap so I think a full face mask is what I want. However, there are days where I wake with mask  face. You know the clear imprint of a cpap mask in the morning. I'm sorry if I'm being a bit vague, so let me clarify. Given I'm going for a full face mask I'm looking for recommendations and people's opinion on what they like and might work for me. I really just want to make sure the choice I make is a solid one as I'm paying for it out of pocket.

[DancesWithCats]

I would suggest at least considering a hybrid full face (bottom of nose and mouth) as opposed to the over the nose style.

Given that everyone's face is different I can't say that the particular one I have would work well for you, or not, (much less tell you what size works for you...) but it works well for me, and the over the nose style was horrible for me. 

There's less mask volume, and the hose goes off the top of your head. It accommodates mouth breathing (I have no idea how much of that I do asleep, but I certainly do it getting to sleep, yawning, etc.)

[kake26]

Thank you. I didn't even know that was an option. This is precisely the kind of reason I asked here. Hopefully a few more replies and I should have enough info to investigate further.

[DancesWithCats]

Looks like the Philips Dreamware version is quite similar and appears to cost less, at least where I've looked so far.  I'm not really shopping for a mask right now, but while shopping for a tube I'm having a look. 

Not seeing any others so far but I haven't looked everywhere. Get the "fit pack" and you can try all the sizes of FF cushions, and that one says it will also work with their nasal or nasal pillow cushions if you want to try that without more investment than a cushion. Pretty sure my ResMed won't do that.

[Deborah K.]

A lot of people start with a full face mask, then switch to a nasal or pillows mask.  That's what I did and I am MUCH happier using a smaller, more efficient mask and taping my mouth.  It's more comfortable and works better at eliminating mouth and mask leaks.  Just something else to consider.

[kake26]

Thanks for the advice everyone. I ended up buying a hybrid an Amara view. Its taking some time to get used to it, but its actually a very nice mask. Taking some time to get used to it, but I will manage.

[OpalRose]

Good luck with your mask choice.  It becomes a challenge when you are self paying as they are expensive.  We can suggest many type masks, but remember that what works for one person might not work for you.  

Also, review the Mask Primer as there are many good tips on proper fitting.

http://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.php...ask_Primer

https://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.ph..._Jeffy1958