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Tiara
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Advantage Hush
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SleepNet
Phantom |
Respironics
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DeVilbiss
Serenity |
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Once you have been prescribed Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)
therapy, you will need to be fitted for a connection to your nose and/or
mouth, tubing and headgear - "an interface". The mask is attached
to tubing that, connected to the CPAP machine, delivers the pressurized
air that prevents apneas from occurring. It is very important that the
mask is comfortable and provides a proper seal for the airflow; the
proper air pressure level cannot be established unless the fit is correct.
Moreover, a comfortable mask that fits well will make using CPAP easier.
In seeking a comfortable mask, keep in mind the fit (does the mask seal
over your nose and/or mouth and/or are the straps too tight or too loose?),
the size (do you have a small when you need a medium?), and the style,
which is a personal preference that only you can determine.
Most masks are triangular in shape and are worn over your nose (or
the nose and mouth, with a full-face mask for mouth breathers) while
the adjustable straps of the headgear hold the mask in place. Straps
that are too loose permit air to leak. Straps that are too tight can
break the seal and create leaks; any strap pulled too tightly can cause
discomfort. Headgear straps must be snug enough for a good fit in all
sleeping positions (back, side, and front) but not tight. "Quick-release"
clips attach to the straps at the front of the mask or the strap hooks
to one part of the mask; both allow for quick, easy removal of the mask.
They also keep the straps in place so you do not have to adjust them
each time you use the mask. Headgear comes in a variety of colors, sizes,
and materials, but some masks can be used only with specific headgear
(many masks are sold prepackaged with headgear). If you breathe through
your mouth, you may also want to consider using a chin strap to help
keep your mouth closed or a mask designed for mouth breathers. (If you
regularly breathe through your mouth during the day because of nasal
obstruction, a consultation with an ear-nose-and throat physician may
be in order.) A chin strap is not recommended in that case.
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