Uploaded on Nov 17, 2022
If you have sleep apnea, one way to treat this condition is to use the continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. It helps you breathe comfortably by opening up obstructions in the airway. But, to ensure the success of CPAP therapy
How can you find the right CPAP mask
How can you find the right CPAP mask?
If you have sleep apnea, one way to treat this condition is to use the
continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. It helps you breathe
comfortably by opening up obstructions in the airway. But, to ensure the
success of CPAP therapy, you will have to find a well-fitting mask. If the case is
otherwise, the air may leak, which can reduce the efficiency of the treatment.
But what is the procedure to find a perfectly fitting CPAP mask? Those
interested in finding out the answer are recommended to read further!
How to find the right CPAP mask size?
Patients with sleep apnea are recommended to undergo a CPAP titration test
to find a perfectly fitting mask. Since its size may vary as you change brands
or models, you will have to physically try the mask to determine what suits
you better. A doctor will assist you with the process.
Things to consider when finding a perfect mask
After determining the size of the mask, the next step is to ascertain the type
that suits you. For this, here are three things you will need to consider:
Sleep position:
Whether you are a back, side, or stomach sleeper has a significant role in
determining the type of CPAP mask you must be using. OSA patients who lie
on their back while resting face the least difficulty adapting to the mask. They
can choose any CPAP mask. On the other hand, for side and stomach
sleepers, finding a comfortable mask can be challenging. Such people should
avoid going for a full face mask and opt for a nasal or nasal pillow mask
instead.
Mouth breather:
Another question you need to ask when deciding which mask suits you is
whether you are a mouth breather. It is so because if you breathe through
your mouth while sleeping, the air pressure can escape, rendering the CPAP
therapy useless. Therefore, instead of opting for nasal or nasal pillow masks,
which leave your mouth free, you should choose a full face mask or hybrid
mask. But, if for some reason you pick the nasal mask, you will have to invest
in the chin strap. It will keep your jaw closed so nothing gets in the way of
your successful OSA treatment.
Facial Hair:
Many men love their beards too much to sacrifice them for the success of the
therapy. Well, there is no need to worry about shaving your facial hair since it
is not necessary. Using the nasal pillow mask means inserting the CPAP pipe
directly into the nasal passages. This way, facial hair doesn’t get in the way.
Also, some CPAP patients use beard oil to soften the facial hair to make the
mask fit more comfortably.
Using the CPAP machine is highly recommended for sleep apnea patients. The
device helps open the airway so you can sleep comfortably through the night.
But for this purpose, it is necessary to find a CPAP mask that fits your face
suitably.
Thank You
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