The ability to identify a CPAP mask that is comfortable will go a long way towards enhancing your experience with CPAP therapy. Nasal masks and nasal pillows are not the only options and may be not as comfortable as some people may expect them to be. In certain cases, it can be a good idea to replace full face CPAP masks.
There is a full face mask, which covers the mouth and nose, and permits the air to pass either way. However, it is best to know why you may have to change and what you may look forward to before you change.
In Which Situations Might a Full Face Mask come in handy?
Mouth breathing is one of the primary factors that make people think full face CPAP masks. In case your mouth open up during the time you are asleep, you can get air that will escape leaving your therapy ineffective. You can also find yourself awake with a dry mouth or observe that your night mask is not airing.
A complete face mask may cover the nose and mouth completely and this could be beneficial to individuals who habitually inhale through the mouth when they are asleep.
Another reason why some individuals would want to have a full face design is because of nasal congestion. It can be hard to comfortably breathe through the nose in case your nose is blocked due to allergies, a cold or other congestion. Another option to receive your airflow is the full face mask.
Still, it does not always indicate that you will require replacing your mask just because of occasional congestion. Discuss your situation with your healthcare provider, especially in case you are planning to switch.
It is important that it feels comfortable and fits.
The size of full face CPAP masks is one of the greatest concerns over switching to full face CPAP masks. They cover a larger portion of the face than nasal masks, and hence, they may feel different initially.
The correct fit is highly essential. An oversized mask may result in a strained nose, cheek or forehead. The mask should not be loose enough to have air escaping and disrupting sleep.
It is possible that it takes some time to locate the correct adjustment. You do not necessarily need to tighten the mask tightly in order to avoid the leaks. In case you need to keep on changing it at night, its size or style might not fit you.
The way you sleep is a factor too. Side sleepers can feel the mask pressed on their pillow more than a person who sleeps on their back, so it can be easier to find a design that can accommodate your usual sleeping posture.
What of Dry Mouth and Air Leaks?
Mouth breathing may be the cause of the problem if you already use a nasal mask, and when you wake up, your mouth is dry. This can be discussed with your healthcare provider prior to switching equipment.
Mouth breathing might be problematic therapy; therefore, a full face mask might be effective, although not guaranteed to work with all individuals. There are various causes of dry mouth such as drugs, dehydration and the air you sleep in.
On the same note, leaky masks are not necessarily as a result of using the inappropriate mask. Leaks may also be caused by an improper size, improper placement of the mask or damaged mask parts.
When should we switch and when not?
Full face CPAP masks are not necessary to all. Provided you have a good nasal mask at present, and your therapy is being well done and you are getting a good sleep, you may not need to change.
A change of course can be reasonable when what you have is continually getting you into trouble. Often mouth breathing, constant leakage, difficulty or discomfort with nasal breathing can point to the need to discuss alternative masks.
Instead of selecting a mask on the basis of it looking better, do it based on how treating your sleeping and how it fits your therapy requirements.
What is the Right Choice?
Replacing your CPAP mask is the business you have to make on your own and comfort must play a significant role in it. Full face CPAP masks may be a helpful alternative to individuals who are mouth breathers or who have poor ability to use a nasal-only design.
Consult your medical professional or CPAP devices expert before changing. They will be able to assist in searching a proper mask size and style and ensuring that they are compatible with your therapy prescription.
An effective mask ought to be comfortable without being uncomfortable or distracting you all the time. CPAP therapy can become a lot simpler to handle when it fits like a glove as part of your nightly routine.
