How to be comfortable with your CPAP mask
Last updated on May 10th, 2021 at 03:59 pm
Being comfortable with your mask is vital for successful CPAP therapy. There are a few factors to take into account and solutions to try to ensure you are as comfortable as possible with your mask.
CPAP Mask Sizing
this is the most important factor. The wrong size will lead to discomfort and leaks, so we have dedicated a page to it that you can read by clicking here.
CPAP Mask Cushion Type
Almost all CPAP masks use either a silicone cushion or a gel cushion. The silicone cushion is the standard, transparent cushion. Gel cushions are generally considered to be most comfortable as they are softer and more adaptive. If you have been struggling with a silicone mask, then a gel cushion may be worth considering.
If you are a nasal breather, then for ultimate comfort you could consider the SleepWeaver Advance. This mask is mask entirely of fabric, with no plastic, silicone or gel touching the face, and is now one of our most popular nasal masks.
CPAP Mask Liners
Mask liners, such as RemZzzs, are available for almost all CPAP masks. They are soft fabric liners that sit between the mask and your face, helping to reduce irritation and lea0ks. By absorbing moisture and oils from the skin, they help prevent the rashes and red marks that they cause and leaks from occurring.
Aromatherapy
Using gentle scents can remove the slight antiseptic smells of a mask, particularly a new one. Instead, this can replace the unpleasant smell with a relaxing, more welcoming aroma. It makes wearing a mask more comfortable and easier to accept. If you find the scent of the mask is something you are uncomfortable with then trying something like Pur-Sleep could be beneficial.
Freedom
Wearing a CPAP mask can restrict your freedom of movement – moving too much or shifting onto your side can dislodge the mask and create leaks and discomfort. There are a few solutions to this.
- An Ultra CPAP Pillow, for example, features cut-outs that your mask falls into when you sleep on your side. This is an excellent solution for those who like to side-sleep and have been unable to do so.
- A Hose Lift is another useful tool, which elevates the hose above the bed. This allows you to change position without fear of the hose pulling on the mask.
Discussion
Thousands of people use CPAP in the UK alone, so we created a forum to let users share their experiences and advice, and ask others for help. Whatever issues you’re having, chances are somebody else will have been through the same thing and will be able to offer support and suggestions. Visit forums.cpap.co.uk now!
If you have any mask issues and the advice here does not solve the problem, then please contact us, and we will see what advice we can offer to you.
