Full Face Mask issue

[mobrien]

I can't wear the nasal mask because my septum is blocking the left nasal passage (I used to box and had my nose broken a few times) The bone on the top area of my nose is about 1.5cm before the cartlidge takes over so when I wear a full face mask my nose collapses (think of boxers nose) at the moment I am using a full face forma but I am finding it more and more unfortable is there any other type of mask I could try and get hold of to take the issues away

[James @ Intus]

Hi,

Difficult issue you have there. Some experience discomfort on the bridge of the nose but this takes it to a whole new level.

I'll reference a few of the ones we sell as I'm familiar with them. Not sure you can get these on the NHS but it's worth asking your clinic.

Oral CPAP masks are usually a last resort. You'll need a humidifier for the pure oral masks like the Oracle 452. The Hybrid CPAP Mask is a popular one which does also send air to the nose but without toucghing the bridge. The ResMed Liberty is similar, oral plus nasal prongs. Images of the Liberty here.

The new SleepWeaver Advance does touch the bridge but barely presses on it. If air can go through if the nose doesn't 'collapse', that could be a solution. Same with nasal pillow CPAP masks. If air can come through, these don't touch the bridge at all, unlike most full face CPAP masks which, like traditional cushion seal nasal masks do tent to touch and put pressure on the bridge of the nose.

Basically, you can forget about traditional nasal cushion masks as well as conventional full face masks. You'll have to look at the nasal pillow systems, provided you can actually usually breathe through your nose, or the oral options. You can consider this to help facilitate making the most of what's left of nasal breathing.

Others may be able to add their suggestions. This is what I know based on the products I've had in my hands and tried on my face. Hope it helps!

[Grumpy]

Resmed Liberty

I had trouble with the Forma mask because I have prominent cheekbones and the mask sort of rocked on them so always leaking at either top or bottom.
I tried a nasal pillow but I'm predominantly a mouth-breather.

The ResMed Liberty mask works for me but I did have to buy it myself, about £135 by the time you add the p&p. Probably more difficult to get used to than some of the other masks and not the easiest to get the right fit. You need it to be as loose as possible to be comfortable around your mouth; but tight enough so that the prongs are a good fit on you nose. Worth playing around with the different sizes of nasal prong too (you get all 3 sizes with the mask); I find the smallest prongs work best for me and I definitely do not have a small nose!