Choosing a Mask for Your CPAP?
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.
Judy
Professor
Blake
