Choosing the Right CPAP Mask

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or CPAP masks are an important tool for those who suffer from sleep apnea. They help to keep sufferers of sleep-related breathing disorders from having any related problems.

But despite their importance, as many as 80% percent of people who have been prescribed a CPAP mask doesn’t use it enough to say safe. In fact as many as half of those prescribed stop using the machine entirely within three weeks.

One of the big reasons people stop using their mask is discomfort. They simply believe that it is not worth the inconvenience, despite the fact that an average night for sufferers of sleep apneas experience 60 apneas per hour.

Fortunately, there are a number of options for masks, so you can choose the one that will best facilitate your sleeping.

This blog will give you an idea of how to decide what kind of mask is best for you.

What Are My Options

There are three main options:

1. Full Face Masks: A full face mask covers both the nose and the mouth. These can be helpful as you might experience mouth leaks — air leaking through your mouth rather than being breathed — with a nose only mask.
2. Nasal Mask: A nasal mask only covers the nose only. These are popular because of their minimalist design. It also features a less direct airflow than the nasal pillow, which allows for more natural breathing.




3. Nasal Pillow: The nasal pillow has two soft nasal tubes and is affixed along the back. This allows for a much more direct airflow and its compact design can be beneficial for those who like to read with a more facial hair.

Comfort

Comfort is an important factor to consider because you will need to wear this item while you are sleeping. Try on each of the various options to see what is going to be the least obtrusive to your sleep.

Fit

The fit is also extremely important. A poor fitting CPAP mask will allow for air to leak and lead to a less efficient airflow. Finding a mask that works with your bone structure and factors like facial care is very important.

Finding the right CPAP mask might be difficult, but it will do a great deal to increase your comfort while wearing it and hopefully make it easy to be more consistent about using it.