New to this: How much leakage is “normal”?

[JN76]

Hi folks. I’m into week 3 of using my Resmed 11 machine and slowly getting used to it. My main issue is leakage. I am ok at the start of the night when the pressure starts at 4 but as it ramps up to 6 or 7 in the middle of the night I’m very aware of leaks from one side of the mask or another.

I’m using a pillow mask as I didn’t like the full face one, I’m cleaning it every day and (I think) doing what I need to do.

The myAir app tells me I have a good seal, scoring me 20 out of 20, so my query is “is some mild leakage to be expected at some point each night?”

[Kelly @ Intus]

Good Morning,

Thank you for your post.

It does take a little bit of time to adjust to sleeping in your CPAP mask.

If you have an auto CPAP machine, then if you pop your mask on and turn the machine on then this will start at a pressure of 4cmh20 and stay there until you are asleep. Once you are asleep the pressure will increase and decrease as and when you need it to reduce your sleep apnoea events.
If the pressure increases rapidly during the night then this may be down to you moving in your sleep and knocking the mask seal. The machine detects the air leakage and increases the pressure to compensate. This can reduce over time as you get use to sleeping with your mask on.

With regards to leakage, anything over 24 litres per minute is an issue. Can you look at the data on your machine to see if it advises a leak rate. If over this amount then I would suggest looking at your mask.

I would suggest checking
1. Do you have the right mask for how you breathe - if you breathe through your nose then you can use a nasal mask. If you breathe through you nose and mouth (ie if you snore) then you would need a full face mask.
2. Do you have the right size mask for your face? Can you check the sizing guide to see if you have the right size.
3. Have you watched a fitting video online for your mask to ensure you are putting it on and adjusting it correctly.
4. RemZzzs mask liners - These soft cotton fabric liners create a barrier, absorb skin oils and reduce air leaks as well as skin irritation and pressure marks - https://www.intushealthcare.com/prod...p-mask-liners/

Please try the above and let me know if you have any questions. You can email me or our customer service team at [email protected]

Kelly

[JN76]

That’s really useful thanks Kelly. All makes sense and I’ll certainly try the mask liners

[Kelly @ Intus]

You are more than welcome.

Kelly