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Why and how often should I replace my mask cushion?
You should replace your mask cushion periodically because as it becomes worn, it becomes less effective. The life of a mask cushion depends on use, the oils from your skin, and cleaning. It is always a good idea to inspect your mask routinely; poor care may adversely affect the fit of the cushion and thus performance. To get the longest life from your mask, be sure to wash your face each night before putting on your mask, and wash your mask after each use. Use only mild soap, nothing with perfumes, moisturizers, antibacterial agents, bleaches, etc, and always dry your mask and cushion out of direct sunlight. Poor performance is often the first clue that your cushion may need replacement. Check for small tears or pinholes, anything that might cause a leak. Household pets have been known to damage cushions by playing with them and so have children, so you may want to keep your mask out of reach. Also, be sure you don't leave your mask somewhere that receives direct sunlight during the day.
Does headgear need to be replaced?
Yes, you will need to replace your headgear occasionally. Like mask cushions, the life of headgear depends on use, the oils from your skin, and care (cleaning, etc). Taking good care of your mask is the key to maintaining the best performance and mask fit. Wash your headgear at least once per week and dry it out of direct sunlight. If you have oily skin or hair, you may need to wash it more often. Headgear should last longer than a cushion, but it will depend on use and environment.
What is the best way to adjust the headgear for a proper fit?
Facial muscles change when we lie down and further relax once we are asleep, so it is always best to fit the mask while you are in your sleeping position. If you sleep in a bed with no pillows, fit your mask like that. If you sleep in a recliner, fit your mask that way.
If the mask is strapped on so tight (to get a seal) that it is painful, does this indicate the wrong size mask?
It probably means you have an incorrectly fit mask. When using your mask, it is important not to over-tighten the mask system. If you can only get a good seal by over tightening the headgear, you probably have the wrong size cushion or an incorrectly adjusted forehead support.
Are masks suitable for use with a moustache?
Some masks have a very thin membrane, which will typically seal even with a moustache. The shallow cushion in particular is ideal for patients with a moustache, as they may need to adjust the cushion in closer to the top lip. The shallow cushion allows the user to angle the cushion more and maintain the seal at the bridge of the nose.
Can mask straps and port caps be purchased separately?
Yes. All mask parts can be purchased separately. For specific parts email our customer service dept at sales@familyhealthsupply.com
When is a full face mask preferable to a nasal mask?
If you mouth breathe or have mouth leaks, then a Full Face Mask will provide a number of benefits over a nasal mask. A full face mask will stop air loss that can compromise treatment, and it can resolve dry throat and nose problems. If you mouth breathe or have leaks, you will not be receiving your full treatment pressure and thus may not be getting the full benefits of your treatment.
I have been having problems keeping my mask on at night—I often wake up to find out that I've removed it in my sleep. Any suggestions? It's usually more prevalent when my allergies and sinuses are acting up.
This type of problem is likely occurring due to nasal congestion. With a history of sinus and allergy problems, you may be better treated with a full face mask and/or humidification. You should discuss this with your primary care physician.
My doctor says that my nose is totally blocked on one side from a deviated septum. Does that mean I can use a full face mask, but can't use a nasal mask?
With a deviated septum, you are likely breathing through your mouth due to your nasal passage being blocked. A full face mask will certainly work for you and would allow you the option of breathing through you nose and/or mouth. If your mouth is dry in the morning, you are probably breathing through your mouth.
Who benefits from wearing a full face mask?
Some people just prefer a full face mask, but those who get a therapeutic advantage are those who mouth breathe or experience mouth leaks. Mouth breathing and mouth leak can lead to less effective therapy.
If I have a nasal mask for my CPAP, can I use a full face mask when I have a cold or nasal congestion/stuffiness?
Yes, however the thing to remember is that every mask has slightly different flow characteristics, so if you're using an AutoSet or VPAP series device, you'll need to change the mask setting on the user menu when you switch masks. Remember that when you change masks on the VPAP Adapt device, you will also need to “Learn Circuit.”
Is there any other benefit to using a full face mask other than for mouth breathers?
Even if you don't mouth breathe, you may still experience mouth leaks. Mouth leaks can contribute to decreased treatment effectiveness and consequent symptoms of poor therapy.
Does bilevel therapy work with a full face mask?
Absolutely. Based on one recent study, one could argue that people using bilevel therapy are more likely to benefit from a full face mask because they are more prone to mouth leak and mouth breathing. In the study, data showed that nearly ALL patients on non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) experienced some degree of mouth leak and/or mouth breathing. Mouth leak reduces the quality of your sleep and causes sleep fragmentation.
Does a heated humidifier work as well with a full face mask?
Yes, and switching to a full face mask may eliminate or reduce your need for humidification.
What if the electricity goes off? Will I still be able to breathe using the full face mask?
Yes, the Full Face Masks have a special anti-asphyxia valve that opens if your PAP device loses power. This feature allows you to breathe room air in the event of a power failure.
Is a full face mask more or less comfortable than a nasal mask?
Everyone is different. Some people find that they prefer a full face mask while others prefer a nasal mask. It is really personal preference. However, both our nasal and full face masks utilize the same cushion technology that inflates to form a floating seal, maximizing patient comfort.
What does a leaking mask indicate?
This may indicate one of several things:
1. incorrect adjustment
2. incorrect assembly
3. incorrect size
4. mask is worn out and needs to be replaced
How do I choose the best mask?
It is important to pick a mask that is comfortable and does not place pressure on the sensitive areas of the face, the nasal bridge, and upper lip. We suggest you try on as many as you can, talk to other users, and look at websites.
Can different masks be used with just about any other brand of CPAP?
Yes.
Do you have a question you would like answered?
Contact us at sales@familyhealthsupply.com
If you have a specific, individual health concern—especially one related to your treatment—please discuss it directly with your health professional.
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- Why and how often should I replace my mask cushion?
- Does headgear need to be replaced?
- What is the best way to adjust the headgear for a proper fit?
- If the mask is strapped on so tight (to get a seal) that it is painful, does this indicate the wrong size mask?
- Are the masks suitable for use with a moustache?
- Can mask straps and port caps be purchased separately?
- When is a full face mask preferable to a nasal mask?
- I have been having problems keeping my mask on at night—I often wake up to find out that I've removed it in my sleep. Any suggestions? It's usually more prevalent when my allergies and sinuses are acting up.
- My doctor says that my nose is totally blocked on one side from a deviated septum. Does that mean I can use a full face mask, but can't use a nasal mask?
- Who benefits from wearing a full face mask?
- If I have a nasal mask for my CPAP, can I use a full face mask when I have a cold or nasal congestion/stuffiness?
- Is there any other benefit to using a full face mask other than for mouth breathers?
- Does bilevel therapy work?
- Does a heated humidifier work as well with a full face mask?
- What if the electricity goes off? Will I still be able to breathe using the full face mask?
- Is a full face mask more or less comfortable than a nasal mask?
- What does a leaking mask indicate?
- How do I choose the best mask?