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High level of leaks - sleepapena - 02-01-2023
NewBe....bout a week/10days. My main concern is the high leak rate 3 different Masks ( 1st. air Fit N30I Nasal, 2nd. Dreamwear Full face mask 3rd.F&P Eson 2 Nasal ) and still leak rates like Medium 22.4 max 52.4. . I tightened the first two mask trying to eliminate leaks but it actually hurt my nose the 3rd is most comfortable but.... still high leak rate ?
Thank You,
Mike
RE: High level of leaks - SwirlySauce - 02-01-2023
Mike,
I've found that tightening your mask too much can be counterproductive to creating a good seal for most mask types. A tight mask will also be uncomfortable and make it hard to sleep.
For the AirFit N30i - have you tried different cushion sizes? Too large or too small and the seal will break more easily when you're moving around in your sleep.
For the Eson 2 and Full Face Mask - do you have a beard/mustache? Facial hair will make you more prone to developing leaks. I was able to get both my Full Face mask and nasal mask working with my beard, but it was never ideal. Ultimately it was just easier and more comfortable to use a nasal pillow mask (AirFit P10).
Lastly your jaw/mouth may be opening at night and causing the air to escape that way. I've had this happen and would wake up with a dry mouth and air gushing out of my mouth. If that is the case you could try a chinstrap to prevent your mouth from opening.
RE: High level of leaks - Jeff8356 - 02-01-2023
sleepapena,
You may find some help in the "Mask Primer" Wiki page here: http://www.apneaboard.com/wiki/index.php?title=Mask_Primer
Everyone is different as far as which mask works for them and it's a very personal choice. I use the F30 FFM (hybrid) and my wife loves the P10. But following the advice in the wiki got us both to the point of virtually no leaks most of the time.
Hope this helps...
RE: High level of leaks - sleepapena - 02-02-2023
Thank You ! I'll ck out the chin strap...I tried a travel pillow last night ......not good.
Thank You. I'll ck out this info. Really want this to work.
RE: High level of leaks - sleepapena - 02-14-2023
Thank you, This Board has produced some excellent help. I've had the pressure lowered and tried adjusting the mask as best I can ( F&P Eson 2 Nasal Mask ) still high Leak rate but my incidents have come down probably ave. < 5 for the last week leak rate still 40nbut...??? I've ordered the Air Touch N20 (memory foam) to see if it's more comfortable (The F&P causes a bit of irritation .