Choosing a sleep therapy mask can be a difficult decision. There are many different manufacturers, models and features that can make it an over whelming process. These are a few things to consider when choosing a PAP mask that works for you.
It’s important to understand that there is not a “best mask” that works for everyone.
Everyone has different therapy needs, face structures are different and some people have facial hair. So the idea is to find a mask that works for “you”.
There are three types of masks to choose from:
Full Face Mask- which covers your nose and mouth and allows you to breathe through your mouth while you sleep.
Nasal Mask- a mask that covers just the nose.
Nasal Pillow Mask- a mask that rests under the nose or has prongs that rest inside your nose.
Most people will benefit most from a Full Face Mask if they are a mouth breather or if they have allergies. If you breathe through your nose while sleeping than the Nasal Mask or Nasal Pillows might be a better fit. If you want to use the Nasal Mask or Nasal Pillows but breathe through your mouth, you may be able to use a chinstrap to keep your jaw closed.
You should try on a variety of different mask sizes, adjusting the straps to experiment with which type of mask fits you best. The proper air pressure cannot be established unless the mask fits properly. The most important factors to consider is that your mask is both comfortable and properly seals the airflow around your face structure.
The fit of a CPAP mask will be different for everyone. Finding a mask that fits your needs can be a trial and error process. Just don’t give up in finding a mask that is right for you, your health depends on it.
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