You or someone you know may suffer from a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This is a breathing disorder during sleep that can have a negative effect on your quality of life when left untreated. The best treatment for OSA is a therapy that utilizes a machine called a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure device (CPAP). This air pressure is delivered to your airway by a mask that covers your nose and sometimes both your nose and mouth. The success of your treatment with CPAP will depend on your ability to find the mask that works best for you. One size does not fit all with CPAP masks.
Several different brands and designs of CPAP masks exist. There are nasal masks that fit over the nose and full face masks that fit over both the nose and the mouth, usually preferred by those who tend to breathe through their mouths when they sleep. Nasal "pillows" are inserted into the nares and provide the least claustrophobic effect. With so many choices here are some things to consider before choosing the mask that is best for you.
Do you have a nasal blockage of any type? If you answer yes, then you will probably be better served to use a full face mask as mentioned in the above section.
Do you naturally breathe through your nose or your mouth? Choosing a mask that fits your needs based on this answer will aid in a more natural transition to CPAP therapy.
Do you breathe through your nose and your mouth? Using a full face mask will allow mixed delivery of air to both your nose and your mouth as your breathing patterns change during the night.
Do you ever feel claustrophobic? If so, a mask that provides a free field of vision may suit you better. Masks with obtrusive interfaces may not work well for you.
Do you scuba dive or snorkel? An oral mask slips into your mouth in a similar manner to what you are used to with a diver's mouthpiece.
Are you comfortable with the feel of a hat or a cap? Masks with headgear are similar in feel to wearing a hat. They are generally lightweight and comfortable.
Would you prefer the freedom of little or no headgear? If so, a direct nasal or oral mask may work for you the best.
Using CPAP to treat sleep apnea can change your life for the better in so many ways. You will feel rested during the day. Your blood pressure can get under control. You will have energy and a desire to get out and enjoy life again. Your organs will get the oxygen they need while you sleep at night. But to enjoy all of these benefits you must choose the best path to success with your machine. This begins and ends with CPAP masks.
Several different brands and designs of CPAP masks exist. There are nasal masks that fit over the nose and full face masks that fit over both the nose and the mouth, usually preferred by those who tend to breathe through their mouths when they sleep. Nasal "pillows" are inserted into the nares and provide the least claustrophobic effect. With so many choices here are some things to consider before choosing the mask that is best for you.
Do you have a nasal blockage of any type? If you answer yes, then you will probably be better served to use a full face mask as mentioned in the above section.
Do you naturally breathe through your nose or your mouth? Choosing a mask that fits your needs based on this answer will aid in a more natural transition to CPAP therapy.
Do you breathe through your nose and your mouth? Using a full face mask will allow mixed delivery of air to both your nose and your mouth as your breathing patterns change during the night.
Do you ever feel claustrophobic? If so, a mask that provides a free field of vision may suit you better. Masks with obtrusive interfaces may not work well for you.
Do you scuba dive or snorkel? An oral mask slips into your mouth in a similar manner to what you are used to with a diver's mouthpiece.
Are you comfortable with the feel of a hat or a cap? Masks with headgear are similar in feel to wearing a hat. They are generally lightweight and comfortable.
Would you prefer the freedom of little or no headgear? If so, a direct nasal or oral mask may work for you the best.
Using CPAP to treat sleep apnea can change your life for the better in so many ways. You will feel rested during the day. Your blood pressure can get under control. You will have energy and a desire to get out and enjoy life again. Your organs will get the oxygen they need while you sleep at night. But to enjoy all of these benefits you must choose the best path to success with your machine. This begins and ends with CPAP masks.
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