Mask Leaks further experiments

[OldCrow]

Now I want to be positive about Cpap and make it work for me but, whoever designed my Mirage Quattro mask must have used a "Standard Nose" that I have patently not got. It's around the bridge and sides of my "beak" that I get the leaks and if I clamp down there it lifts on the chin.
Well, I aint gonna let it beat me so I'm experimenting with my own solutions.
Tried a towelling strip across bridge of the nose, stuck down with elastoplast - it works but only just.
Tried the mask pads you can buy specific for this mask - still a few leaks.
Made my own version of the pad out of towelling - that works but I'm not sure about all the hairy stuff it might be blowing into you. Still the towelling, being loops, does tend to diffuse any leaks.
Tried felt - works but tends to interrupt airflow, offends the pressure sensor of the machine and leads to noise and "revving."
Made my own mask liners from pillowcase material, using two thicknesses. That does work.
Now for best effect, the silicone seal of the mask should "float" on the face using the air pressure to hold it down. Best effort so far is to fold one of my very thin mask inserts double so it's a collar/half-moon shape and just use that as a barrier across the bridge of the nose and down the sides somewhat. Being thin, it doesn't cause a leak gap where it ends and the silicone seal can fit well enough that I can get right inside the mask. Far the best as regards noise and comfort. Got six hours last night, best so far.

[ElleCee]

Thanks for that info, I shall have to give it a go and fold my RemZzz in half.
I think you may have hit on the right solution.

Regards
Lorraine

[Tricia]

My imagination is working overtime trying to imagine your nose!
I'm glad that you've found a solution that seems to work.

[Tigers Fan]

All masks ae not equal.

Hi OldCrow

If the Quattro does not suit your nose - or any other facial feature - you may never get a good, easy to achieve, comfortable fit.

Once beyond the initial pronblems of getting used to CPAP at all, the major problem is finding a mask that suits us. Financial constraints may make this difficult for some but it comes down to a matter of experimentation - you just have to try different masks until you find the one for you.

I'm aware of three routes: 1. keep going back to your sleep clinic and asserting your right to a mask that works for you 2. talk to James 3. choose a favoutite manufacturer and spend £25 on a mask fitting session at one of their sleep clinics (you don't have to buy a mask but at least, with luck, you will know which one to focus on with the NHS).

I was definately near the front of the queue when noses were given out but a Quattro is my favourite whilst I experiment with a FitLife (which has reduced me to Newbie status again but is so very comfortable when I get it right - and stay still!)

TF

[OldCrow]

Thanks, I may never get this to fit properly.

Thanks for the reply
Now I want to be a as positive as possible with CPAP but presently all it's doing is doing my head in. I just don't want to go to bed at all and spend all night fighting it. There are still some things I can try around the bridge of the nose but my NHS is not likely to be very supportive. I don't mind spending money on a decent fitting mask. I don't mind the blowing or the noise and I can put up with the dry mouth but blasts of air into the eyes is a real problem
as is the damn thing cutting into me if I have to overtighten it. There has to be an answer to this; presently I feel exhuasted with the struggle and am beginning to develop a phobia about going to bed. I'll keep trying but I think I need to examine other routes. Thanks again

[gargler]

Try a different style of mask

Have a look at the Mirage Liberty mask. It is a Full Face mask but instead of the cushion going over the bridge of your nose, you get two cushioned prongs going into your nostrils.
I also have a bump on the bridge of my nose which made many of the Full Face masks impossible to fit without the leaks into my eyes. The Mirage Liberty was the solution for me. There is also a similar mask called the Hybrid
which falls into this category. This mask has the added benefit of a cup fitting under the chin which prevents your mouth opening when asleep.
Both masks prevent the feeling of claustraphobia and you can also read in bed if you wear glasses.
My mask was provided by Southampton NHS so you should be able to get one through your PCT. I am off to exchange mine soon as I've had it for nearly a year now. I hope I can get the same type.
Keep going
Steve

[OldCrow]

Alternate mask designs possibly

Thanks for the suggestions folks, I'm afraid I'm just deformed with a dent AND a bump on the bridge of my nose that's great for resting your specs on but not great for mask fitting. I've had some success with a folded strip of gauze taped to my face with surgical tape but it's hit and miss - or hiss! Yes I have been aware of the masks that just cover your mouth with added "nose blockers" maybe I'd be able to read until I passed out like I used to; at least any leaks won't be going in my eyes.
I haven't seen the Mirage liberty on sale - who does it; I don't mind spending money for my sanity. The Hybrid I have seen and it intrgues me.
Still not sure what CPAP is supposed to do for me - the effect so far has been like traquilisers and I'm somewhat stupified but maybe more relaxed and not so exhausted.
Now, what will be the effect of all that extra oxygen to my brain - will I become a genius???

[gargler]

Mirage Liberty

The Mask is produced by Resmed. You shouldn't have to buy one - ask your NHS for one to try.