Looking for a better mask

[rayj103152]

I am an old computer user that has never used a blog or forum so I have no idea if I am anywhere near close to the right place to be putting in a question that I want an answer to. I am not even sure what a thread is. I use thread to sew with.

I have been using a CPAP machine for over 5 years. I have used two styles of face mask and two nose pillow masks and from poking around on the inernet I realize that there are a lot more choices and styles to choose from. I need a chin strap to keep my mouth closed when I use a nose pillow, but the chin strap and head gear interfere with each other. What I have works ok, but is uncomfortable and leaks sometimes, makes noise sometimes and I must open my mouth because I wake up and my throat is very dry even with a humidifier. Ordering different styles of headgear and face masks over the internet seems like an incredibly ineffective and expensive way to find a better mask. Am I the only one who suffers from cronic uncomfortableness but it hasn't been uncomfortable enough to make my own headgear custom fitted to my uniquely shaped head.?

My physician has been somewhat helpful. Their office only has a relatively few masks to select from and hasn't been very willing to work with me since my mask fits ok.

[puffin]

Hi Ray, welcome to the forum.

First a "thread" is like a conversation on one subject, anyone who is registered can "post" an answer, simple really.

As for masks, if your supplier has only a few options thats a problem. In the UK we have the bemoaned National Health Service, which varies in the level of treatment depending on regional funding shortfalls, which we call the Post Code Lottery. But generally they work hard to sort you out, personally I've had 5 masks before the right one fitted. All this free to the British public.

How ever a growing number of individuals are buying their own equipment directly from the manufacturers outlets. And from was I hear customer services are very good. I would try to find your local outlet and visit them if possible, don't do the ebay or mail order thing as you don't who they are or get fitting advise.

Good luck

[retsyo]

A better mask

Hi As a new user of masks I searched the web and found a site www.cpap.com where you can take your facial measurements to find the right mask for you.

I was issued with two masks that I find unsuitable to use, confirmed by the web site, and now await two masks recommended by the site. These are being sent by the sleep clinic.

Will let you know how I get on.

[rayj103152]

Thanks

Thanks for the information. I wondered how it worked in the UK. I am on my 4th mask so Hopefully the next one will fit well. Someone else mentioned a site to take face measurements. thats seems like a good place to start.

Hi Ray, welcome to the forum.

First a "thread" is like a conversation on one subject, anyone who is registered can "post" an answer, simple really.

As for masks, if your supplier has only a few options thats a problem. In the UK we have the bemoaned National Health Service, which varies in the level of treatment depending on regional funding shortfalls, which we call the Post Code Lottery. But generally they work hard to sort you out, personally I've had 5 masks before the right one fitted. All this free to the British public.

How ever a growing number of individuals are buying their own equipment directly from the manufacturers outlets. And from was I hear customer services are very good. I would try to find your local outlet and visit them if possible, don't do the ebay or mail order thing as you don't who they are or get fitting advise.

Good luck