Mask vs. Nasal Pillows? How do you know what to use?

[puppetmasr]

I have used the Activa LT nasal mask and equivalent for a long time now and am using the swift fx mask because it was so comfortable during a current sleep test but now that I have it at home it is not working out for me. I find myself taking it off after 30 - 60 minutes. I have been trying to use it but not successful so I have my old mask ready so I have a backup plan.

[TheDreamer]

Well, I think my DME pushes nasal pillows....because they make the most money. With a nasal pillow mask, they'll offer to sell me a new set of pillows every month. But, when I'm on a nasal mask, they told me they could only get me a new one quarterly. Though I can push a nasal pillow over 2 months, while a nasal mask cushion is pushing it before 3 months is up.

Of course, they think the less contact the more comfortable it is, etc. But, something like the swift fx, has too much contact....caused me some ugly breakouts and stuff all along the cheek contact. Could be why I used to prefer the ComfortLite2. Which was also a good mask (after a modification to the hose swivel) for when I roll onto my stomach during the night....

My current is a Bravo II. Thinking of trying the Aloha next....

I got a mini pap-illow....I use it when I need something to cuddle with....but in talking with one of the designers, its not for people for mainly sleep on their back. Which is the position I mainly sleep in.

For me, I've been experimenting with Buckwheat and Millet hull pillows. I had a Buckwheat one that was adjusted just right for all positions....but seems I'm allergic to something, so I switched to a Millet hull pillow...but I haven't gotten it right yet. There's a Buckwheat pillow that's marketed towards CPAP users..(and I own one), but if you got with Buckwheat, it doesn't have to be that version.

The Dreamer.