How To Choose The Right CPAP Mask For You

When commencing Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatment, it is important to choose the right CPAP mask for you. CPAP masks, like faces, come in all shapes and sizes, and it can often be confusing to know which mask will suit you best Without the right CPAP mask, this can impact treatment efficacy (i.e. CPAP mask leakage, CPAP machine usage and Apnoea Hypopnoea Index), as well as general comfort with treatment.

There are 3 main types of CPAP masks used in the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA):

• Full Face Masks: Full face masks cover the nose and mouth, and are used primarily for people who are “mouth-breathers”. These are patients who may breathe through their mouth some of the time while they are sleeping or all of the time. Full face masks are usually a comfortable choice for those also requiring high pressures as there are more straps that go around your head to keep the mask secured to your face. Full face masks are made from a hard plastic frame and surrounded by a soft inner cushion that seals to the face. This mask’s seal goes from just above the nose to just below the bottom lip to create an air-tight seal.

• Nasal Masks: Nasal masks cover the nose from the bridge to just above the top lip and are worn over the entire nose with straps around the head. They are lighter and more compact than a full face mask. Nasal masks tend to be more stable than nasal pillow for restless sleepers as they are secured to the head with more straps. They also generally cope better with higher pressures than nasal pillow masks. Nasal masks have a hard plastic casing which is surrounded by a soft seal designed to keep an air-tight seal around your nose.

• Nasal Pillow Masks: Nasal pillow masks sit under the nose and have two soft silicone plugs that sit under the nostrils to deliver air. They are popular for being lighter and more compact that nasal or full face masks. They work well for those with thick beards or moustaches, or feel claustrophobic and are also suitable for those who like to read or watch TV with glasses on. Nasal pillow masks work well for those who inhale and exhale through their noses all night and can be less invasive than nasal masks.

After choosing what type of CPAP mask suits you, it’s important to work with your CPAP consultant to choose the right size. There are no industry standard sizes brand to brand, so sizes can vary greatly. CPAP mask sizes range from petite to extra-large and can usually accommodate all faces. Many masks come with several cushion sizes to help take the guess-work out of finding the right fit, but you can always consult your CPAP consultant to use a size guide to get the best fit right away. Manufacturers have also designed the mask straps so that they fit the vast majority of users, however, there are some people who will need specific sizes to accommodate their head circumference.

If unsure which CPAP mask will suit you best, it is recommended that you speak to your doctor, and/or an independent and experienced CPAP consultant who can walk you through the many different brands and masks, to determine which mask will suit you best. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding how often to replace your mask and its accessories, as the mask cushion and headgear can wear out over time, impacting the efficacy and comfort of your CPAP treatment. Most CPAP devices will inform you of the quality of the mask’s seal after use. If your masks is consistently leaking air, it may be time to replace your current mask.

It is vital to understand that you will not always achieve a perfect seal every night. This does not necessarily mean that your mask is inadequate. Tossing and turning at night can often lead to some air leaking as you change sleeping positions. Working closely with your CPAP clinician to monitor your sleep data is one of the best ways to ensure that your treatment is working effectively. When searching for CPAP equipment, it is important that you look for an independent CPAP provider that carries a comprehensive product range from a variety of manufacturers, offers face-to-face clinical support as well as phone and online support to ensure you get the best out of your CPAP treatment. With many different manufacturers offering a wide range of products, having the opportunity to choose the devices and equipment that best suit your treatment needs can be a crucial aspect of the success of your CPAP treatment.

If you have difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep or constantly feel tired when awake, you may have a sleep disorder. If you suspect this may be you, you should seek the advice of your family doctor and/or a sleep specialist. They can help make a clinical determination as to whether common sleep disorders such as insomnia, obstructive sleep apnoea or restless legs syndrome are present. They will generally recommend having a sleep study, where wires will be attached to your body, and the signals monitored during your sleep. Sleep studies can determine the presence of a sleep disorder, which will then provide guidance on treatment options. For example, a common sleep disorder such as sleep apnoea, will often be treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), Mandibular Advancement Splints (MAS), positional sleep devices and/or weight loss.

Sove CPAP Clinic is a leading, independent and comprehensive provider of Respiratory & Sleep Disorder services with a network of clinics nationwide. We provide eligible patients with access to bulk billed sleep studies, Respiratory/Sleep specialist consultations and sleep apnoea treatment services.* Speak with your doctor or contact Sove CPAP Clinic on 1300 76 29 39, or email info@thecpapclinic.com.au * Medicare criteria apply