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+--- Thread: Are memory foam masks really safe? (/Thread-Are-memory-foam-masks-really-safe)
Are memory foam masks really safe? - POOKISTAN - 04-21-2024
I recently read about the horror stories of the many people with ruined lungs due to the PE-PUR foam in specific cpap machines that are presumably no longer around. Well, I got a memory foam mask without really thinking it through, and I was just wondering: Are we sure there are not small fibers that are coming off of these into our airways? I think I'm probably just being paranoid, but could someone who is knowledgeable about this stuff please explain why they believe they are?
It's an honest question from an admittedly neurotic individual. I just got done using my new one for the first time and it just felt like there were fibers in my throat.
If it's of any importance I'm using a Resmed AirTouch F20 full face mask.
Any constructive responses are appreciated...
RE: Are memory foam masks really safe? - Deborah K. - 04-21-2024
It is an entirely different kind of foam than the sound-deadening foam used in cpap machines. I cannot think that it could cause any problems. Also, the foam inside the Philips machines was getting into the path of the airways that go up one's nose. The foam used on the mask just sits on the nose. One does not breathe through it at all. I would feel perfectly safe wearing it.
RE: Are memory foam masks really safe? - POOKISTAN - 04-21-2024
Thanks for taking the time to respond and the bit of reassurance.
RE: Are memory foam masks really safe? - BuzzaJim - 04-21-2024
Until recently I was using an F20 Airtouch. It was the worst part of my therapy and I was always looking for an alternative whenever insurance would allow. The other options were just as unpleasant.
Recently, the F40 was released and it’s been awesome. The cushion is soft silicon, the frame is flexible and it stays in place when side-sleeping. Most importantly, it seals well and is not unpleasant to wear. There are several recent threads on the forum that have been pretty favorable and very helpful with headgear adjustments.
I’ve never given the foam issue much thought since I believe the foam problems were of Phillips doing. There are lots of chemical formulations for foam, depending on the application. It’s my understanding Phillips was using a formulation for sound deadening within the machine. I don’t think there have been any issues for the formulation that ResMed uses for AirTouch cushions.
Perception becomes reality, so if you are concerned about the ResMed foam you do have options better than the F20.
Buzz