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+--- Thread: Large size nasal pillow causing higher frequency of CAs? (/Thread-Large-size-nasal-pillow-causing-higher-frequency-of-CAs)
Large size nasal pillow causing higher frequency of CAs? - SwirlySauce - 03-23-2023
Hi everyone,
I've been trialing the Swift FX nasal pillow mask and feel that it is the perfect mask for me. The mask is similar to the P10 but has a more stable headgear so it tends to slip less at night and causing less leaks. Along with the mask I am also trying the large size pillows.
My go-to P10 mask size for the last couple of years has been Medium, which I always thought provided decent (but not great) airflow and minor leaks.
After trying the large size pillow I've concluded that is the better pillow size for me - it provides more airflow and doesn't have that "sucking air through a straw" feeling that the Medium pillow does.
The only issue is that my CA events are high after making the switch. I can use the Medium pillow at much higher IPAP / EPAP pressures without any issues, and I'm not sure why this is.
For example:
Medium pillow, PS 3.6, EPAP 9.0 = No CA events / no hypopnea/apnea events
Large pillow, PS 3.4, EPAP 6.8 = 5 CA events / no hypopnea/apnea events
Any ideas as to why the large pillows would cause more CAs even at an overall lower pressure? I didn't think changing pillow size could have such a large impact on events. The only thing I can think of is it has to do with better airflow...or something.
Curious to see if anyone else has seen this when changing pillow sizes.
RE: Large size nasal pillow causing higher frequency of CAs? - Sleeprider - 03-23-2023
I have the same experience using large pillows and don't use the medium as they don't flow air as easily. You can easily reduce the CA events caused by this improved ventilation by changing your Trigger Sensitivity from medium to high setting. I think you'll be fine with that.
RE: Large size nasal pillow causing higher frequency of CAs? - SwirlySauce - 03-23-2023
Hi Sleeprider,
Good to see you. I use High trigger as I find Very High to be a bit too sensitive at times.
Would dropping the EPAP more be of any use? I believe you had told me a while back that Pressure Support is a driver of TECSA, so not sure if that would help.
RE: Large size nasal pillow causing higher frequency of CAs? - Sleeprider - 03-24-2023
For five total events, I'm not doing anything. It's a very minor issue and will probably take care of itself as you adapt to the better airflow.