Very basic mask advice from a newbie!

[seasidegirl]

If you're new to CPAP too and having trouble with the mask, these are my only words of wisdom, gleaned after a whole two weeks of using it. DO NOT DO IT UP TOO TIGHT!. I thought it had to be tight to stop it moving and not break the seal but in fact it's a million tmes better now I've loosened it and it can move about with me.

[James @ Intus]

Good tip and one they should hammer home when they give it to you.

Most masks have a seal like a hovercraft's skirting. The plastic needs freedom to shape to your face and create the seal. The straps aid in positioning, not really for tightening. Straps are there to keep the mask in place, the seal is the part that shapes automatically.