Selecting a full face mask

[Allessio77]

It's time to think about face masks. I have decided that the FFM is easier for me to control (leaks). So far I have only used the Quattro Air which was issued to me along with the Dreamwear. (too many straps, collars, tape, etc with the Dreamwear...although it is very comfortable otherwise).

I have been looking at the Resmed Airfit F20 and the Airtouch F20 and the Fisher Simplus.

I use a large cushion, have no beard or stach, and don't read or watch TV in bed.

So, are my choices OK...which is best...Am I missing a mask that I should consider? I can't try them all on over night, so what do the experts suggest??

[zzzZorro]

About PAP machines I am learning.  About this particular mask question I am pretty sure-

Full Face masks frequently create pressure sores on the bridge of the nose.  I have noted this is a common problem for many who use them.  I have used a F-20 AirFit (foam) that will cause that problem with me after a couple days use (it seals well for me). Have tried the gel pad and tape under it on the nose bridge but it does not help much. 

The masks with the forehead pad (such as the Quattro) stand-off from the nose bridge and help this problem.  I am currently using the old Quattro and it is the best for this problem so far.  In a couple weeks I am going to get a silicone seal for the F-20 to be sure it is not a remedy for the foam seal, which I know causes a pressure sore.  But I expect it to behave the same as the F-20 has no stand-off.

Nasal masks are out I assume for you as they are for me.  I just ordered a FitLife FF mask from supplier#26 to see if it will work for me.  I only did as they have a free 30 day return for trial and free postage shipment.  I ordered this Full Face mask to be sure it will not work for me.. hoping to be pleasantly surprised

[Gideon]

Not enough info to tell.

[Melman]

Which is best will vary by individual as our faces are not the same. Some love the Amara View. It didn't work well for me.  I now use the Airfit F20 (silicone cushion) and it's great for me. I rarely have leaks and it's very comfortable, You may have to try several. Proper adjustment is critical. I suggest you read the mask primer in the link below before proceeding.

[HalfAsleep]

Like you, I gave up on nose-y masks. I should have done it way sooner.

I have tried several FFMs. I did so by purchasing return insurance from a vendor and trying them out.

The F20 runs small.

The F10 (which I settled on because it made the fewest leaks) is a few mm longer and wider than the F20, an important advantage for me.

I have way fewer leaks with FFM's than the nose-y masks. I do not have any pain or irritation.

------------

However, the FFM has made an ENORMOUS difference in my life.

Yeppers, the wide blast of humidity has made my hair super curly. Heck, I have ringlets. It's been my one big chance for having a totally new makeover with no cost to myself. And the compliments....

When I have a moment, I'll post before and after photos.

And that's not the only transformation.

Yeppers, for an even bigger, more impactful makeover (if that's even possible), I now have a large triangle of baby soft unwrinkled skin where the mask sits.

And, what ho, when I added a smidge of lanolin to my outer nose to keep itches from developing in the middle of the night, it made moisturized baby soft skin.

I have truly found the fountain of youth, or so I believe (at this moment). It's all about mask selection.

[JesseLee]

I use a Fisher and Paykel Simplus. The headgear is a year old and still going strong. It is easily removable with two clips at the bottom corners of the mask. I rarely move or release the Velcro. It has never given me sores, however it does leave a little redness on my cheeks near my nose. Lanolin has decreased the period of time for the minor irritation to disappear (20 minutes). Nothing that bugs me. It took me some time to fine tune the headgear to prevent leaks. It only leaks when I twist my face across the pillow, then I only recenter the mask on my face. I'm getting three months out of a cushion. I give it wash by hand with blue dawn dish liquid every other day or so. The swivel works well and the coupling and tube adapter are just right. Easy to disconnect but not loose enough to just come apart with accidental tugs on the hose. I'm pleased with my mask. Going to try a Quattro that the sleep lab is going to set me up with, just for fun and curiosity. I just found out they throw them away after they do a sleep study. Sometimes they get worn for less than an hour and I'm not a germophobe.

[SarcasticDave94]

I have the AirFit and AirTouch cushions for the F20. I use the AirFit more or less exclusively. The AirTouch leaked a bit too much for me, but it was more comfortable otherwise. I've still got the Respironics Amara View as well. Just an emergency backup now.

Direct answer: all that I've heard of the masks you mention, those that they work well for tend to love them.

Masks are best compared when tried out to determine the results. Of course, cost can limit that a lot. I'd almost gamble and tell you to try the F20. I'm guessing the best advice is read many reviews and if you could get your DME to allow you to try some to help. Oh yes, I forgot which supplier has an option to return masks in 30 days for I think a small fee.

[Gideon]

Ask your DME for a mask fitting, that your current mask is not working for you. Then try a sleep center and your doctor.

[Ghost1958]

I've tried many ffm including the fitlife.

Simplus IMHO hands down.

[HalfAsleep]

Supplier #1 offers free return insurance on some masks. On others, you can buy return insurance.