Choosing the best CPAP mask is probably the key for a successful CPAP treatment. You will need a mask that fits comfortable on your face, without leaks. Having a poor fit makes the therapy unbearable.
No one is more interested to have a good mask than you do (not even your doctor), so the more you know about this subject, the better chances to find the best sleep apnea mask.
In this page you’ll learn:
- the types of CPAP masks,
- how to choose the right type of mask for your face,
- how to test a sleep apnea mask before buying,
- mask fitting tips,
- how to overcome the most common sleep problems with your mask.
Types of CPAP Masks
There are different styles and designs available on the market. In addition, each type of mask is available in various sizes, such as small, medium and large.
CPAP Mask Types
Nasal CPAP Masks
CPAP Nasal Mask- these are the most common interfaces used by sleep apnea patients. The nasal mask is triangular in shape and sits over the entire nose (above the upper lip but bellow the nares) and is held in place with a strap around the head. Recommendation: the CPAP nasal mask works best for patients who sleep with their mouth closed and have no obstruction of the nasal airways.
CPAP Nasal Pillows
CPAP Nasal Pillow- this interface has 2 small flexible silicone components that fit into the nares. The pillows are inflated with air from CPAP machine, thus making a seal to prevent leaks. Recommendation:
- the Nasal Pillows works best for patients who sleep with their mouth closed and have clear nasal passages.
- for patients who have claustrophobic problems from wearing a mask.
CPAP Full Face Masks
CPAP Full Face Mask- these masks cover the mouth and the nose, and the air pressure is applied to both in the same time. The full face mask has valves or small openings built-in the mask that allows for air breathing if the CPAP machine stops from a power failure.
Recommendation:
- for patients who are mouth breathers,
- for people with nasal congestion and cannot use the nasal interfaces.
CPAP Oral Masks
Oral CPAP Masks- these masks allow to use only the mouth to breathe the air from CPAP. Because it uses just the mouth, it’s necessary to have heated humidification to prevent dryness of the oral tissues. Recommendation:
- for CPAP users who breathe mostly through their mouth,
- for patients who cannot use a full face mask (claustrophobia),
- patients with nasal problems (nasal congestion, deviated septum).
CPAP Hybrid Masks
Hybrid CPAP Masks– this interface covers the mouth and has nasal pillows for your nose. So, it doesn’t cover your nose to cause skin irritation. Recommendation:
- for mouth-breather patients who don?t like using chin straps or full face masks,
- for patients with claustrophobia,
- for CPAP users with irritation on the bridge of the nose.
CPAP Custom Fit Masks
– this should be the best choice in having the perfect fitting mask. However, this custom interface is expensive and there are very few companies on the market who makes custom CPAP masks.
Choosing The Right CPAP Mask
Before shopping – choosing the right type of mask
Before going to the CPAP equipment supplier, you need to know about your:
- doctor recommendation for a sleep apnea mask,
- the size and shape of your face – the mask has to “follow” the shape of your face or nasal orifices to minimize leaks,
- shape and size of your nose – to avoid the excess pressure from the mask frame (if it’s a nasal or full face mask),
- shape and size of your nasal openings and interior passages – if you want to use nasal pillows, these interfaces have also different shapes and sizes. Find the ones for your nose,
- sleep position – some masks work better for side sleeping, others for sleeping on the back.
- type of comfort – are you claustrophobic? Then a full face mask will be difficult to tolerate. Are you a mouth breather? Then nasal mask or nasal pillow will not work without the help of CPAP chin strap.
