The type of mask that is used is really down to personal preference for the most part. However different masks do provide different functions. For instance:
A full face mask that covers your entire face will allow a person who sleeps on there stomach and even face down to still receive the benefits of cpap as long as the exhaust can escape via normal port or a special extension hose.
A face mask that covers the nose and mouth is good for mouth breathers like me. I usually spend some of my sleep cycle on my stomach. When on my stomach, even facing to the sides, my mouth usually opens at some point. If i was using a nasal only mask cushion or pillow, that would cause in interruption in therapy. They do make chin straps to help keep the mouth closed in these instances but i don't care for them and this solves that problem nicely for me.
A sleep apnea full face mask is a type of CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) mask that covers both the nose and mouth to deliver pressurized air to treat obstructive sleep apnea. It is typically used when a person breathes through their mouth during sleep or experiences difficulty breathing through the nose with other types of masks.
You may have to use a "full face" mask (one that covers your mouth and nose). Your sleep therapist or doctor should be able to confirm this.
If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea and prescribed a Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) Device, choosing the right mask to use with your CPAP is quite important. If the mask is uncomfortable, compliance with using the CPAP falls dramatically, and not using your CPAP can lead to very severe health problems in the future. Nasal Masks Probably the most commonly used mask is the nasal mask. This mask fits over the nose and is usually cushioned with a gel or soft plastic liner to form a good seal to prevent air leaks. Those with facial hair may have a problem with the mask sealing properly, but that isn’t guaranteed. Don’t let the tech talk you out of trying it, because you have a mustache. Some can use a nasal mask successfully with facial hair. One of the drawbacks of this type of mask is air leakage. Air can leak around the bridge of the nose can cause the eyes to dry out. Other complaints include dry nasal passages and nosebleeds, but this is often resolved with a heated humidifier attached to the CPAP. Full Face Mask A Full Face CPAP Mask covers both the nose and mouth. These masks are great for those people who have trouble breathing through their nose. With the full face mask, the user can breathe through their mouth if their nose becomes plugged. Even if you normally use a nasal mask, it is handy having a full face mask on hand for times when your nose if plugged. Again, these may have a problem sealing for those with facial hair. Try it out before you decide. Nasal Prong Masks A third option for CPAP users is the Nasal Prong Mask. These masks are becoming more popular. They consist of two prong shapes that fit into the nares with the CPAP tube running underneath and resting on the top lip. This allows the user to wear glasses, move more easily, and speak without removing the mask. This is good for those with facial hair, however, those requiring higher CPAP pressures may not be able to use these masks.
If you use a full face mask (mouth and nose), you won't be able to use reading glasses. You may have better luck if you can tolerate a nasal mask or nasal pillows.
The Breeze CPAP mask, is a mask by Puritan Bennet that is designed for maximum comfort with a custom fit, while using as few straps as possible.
“The mask sits on the face, in contact with organisms on the skin. Over time, bacteria and oils on a dirty mask may give you a rash or infection on the skin,” says Dr. Epstein.
Complications of CPAP may include nasal congestion or dryness, discomfort related to wearing the mask, and feelings of claustrophobia.
Yes. Excessively high pressures will cause the mask to leak and affect the CPAP's performance.
The CPAP mask is connected to the machine using special tubing also known as a hose. One end of the hose connects to an elbow or an adapter on the bottom of the mask. The other end of the hose connects to the CPAP machine output joint. It should fit snuggly, but not be difficult to attach. If it is, then you may not have the right size hosing or adapter for the mask/machine you are using and should contact your Respiratory Therapist, Physician, or CPAP supplier for help in trouble shooting this problem.
up your butt
CPAP is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. This is a system where equipment blows air into a mask that covers the nose or nose and mouth of the patient. CPAP is used to treat sleep apnea, where the sufferer stops breathing several times a night, or for severe snoring. The air pressure keeps the airways open, enabling the patient to breathe properly. Nasal CPAP is where the CPAP mask fits only over the nose. Some people find this more comfortable than a larger mask.
If you are currently on oxygen therapy your physician may add it to your cpap machine via a shuttle/shunt that is connected to the tubing. Thus eliminating the need to wear the nasal canula and the mask together.