Help a new user of CPAP - advice needed

[Martin Edwards]

I got my first machine last night , the doctor gave me a gelled nose mask but has loads of straps to hold it onto the head . When its on air comes not only goes into your nose but also blows out of your nose which is quite noisy . Also if I have mouth open it fills up with saliva and feels like you are trying to catch your breath. Is this normal and just takes getting used to ? or would nasal pillows be a better option ...although the doc says they could make your nostrils go like Kenneth Williams

many thanks for any advice

[Joe McManus]

Hi Martin, thanks for joining the forum!

Gel masks like the Repsironics Comfort Gel are very popular middle-of-the-road, convenient choices. They seem to work well for most.

As far as the straps go, here are a few tips for fitting them:

- Practice in front of the mirror so you get to know what is where, which tightens what and so on. You will at times have to do this in pitch black so a bit of training will help.
- Don't overtighten them. The gel will form to the contour of your face so you don't have to go overboard with tightening the straps.
- Finalize the straps when lying down in the position you will sleep in. Your facial features will relax during sleep so it's important to try and fit them in that type of shape.

When your mouth opens you may want to consider a chin strap. Not sure nasal pillows would change that a lot.