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**Sleep2Snore** · 26 September 2013, 22:22

You will get whatever machine they give you, it may be a CPAP or a APAP.
A machine is a machine, it is basicly just an air pump with a few whistles attached.
However the mask is where most people have problems, don't just take the first one they offer, ask what masks they carry in stock, take your time and decide which one you feel is the best fit. They usually come in small, medium and large.
There are Nasal Masks (fits over the nose), various makes and models.
Nasal Pillows (fits onto the nostrils and goes slightly inside) again, various makes and models, pillows come in three sizes, some more adjustable then others.
Full-faced masks (these are a must if you breath through your mouth) come in various models.
There is even cloth type masks, but I doubt your clinic will stock them.
Do take your time to select one, it may save you a lot of trouble later.
A good tip is to try them when lying down as the shape of your face does change.
Some machines come with a pressure relief system that drops the pressure when you breath out, most new users fine this easier to get on with. Ask if your machine has this and is it turned on.
Also ask about a humidifier, you may not get one at first, but if you feel dry and have difficulty breathing during the night for dryness phone and ask for one.
When you get a mask, do not over tighten it, fit it when lying down, then adjust the straps so the mask is just tight enough to stop leaks and no more. Take this into consideration when trying on the masks at the hospital.
The mask wants to be a snug fit without pressing it hard onto your face.
When the machine starts the air inside the mask pushes the seal against your face to form a seal. You may not get the mask right first time, but ask for a better one if you find it does not work for you when you get home.
Do remember though, it does take a bit of experimentation to get things to go well at the start.
Any problems, just ask.

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