Selecting A Suitable CPAP Mask

A CPAP mask is an important part of the continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP therapy. This is a therapy that is used to treat obstructive sleep apnea, a sleep disorder that is characterized by an obstruction of your airway when you are asleep.

A CPAP machine is used to supply pressurized air down your airway in order to keep it open. You can breathe in the air that is pressurized through a CPAP mask. There are different types and sizes of masks available such as the Fisher and Paykel CPAP mask which can be suitable for your needs.

How To Identify A Suitable Mask

You are likely to come across a very wide range of sizes and shapes of masks and you should keep a few things in mind so that you can narrow down to what suits you. The mask that you select should be suitable for your method of breathing. If you normally breathe through your nose, the nasal mask or the nasal pillow would be appropriate. You can use the full face mask if you normally breathe through your mouth.

If you are a side sleeper or you often sleep on your stomach, then the nasal mask or the nasal pillow can work for you. However, these two masks may not be suitable if a high pressure has been prescribed for your therapy. You will be better off using a full face mask so that you can accommodate the high pressure through your nose and mouth.

When To Use A Full Face Mask

The full face mask covers the nose and mouth and comes with headgear which is fitted on the forehead and the cheeks in order to create a good seal. This mask is prone to air leakage since it has contact with a larger part of your face than the other masks. You should therefore ensure that the mask fits well to avoid leakage. This mask is not a good option if you have a beard as it will interfere with the seal.

The full face Fisher and Paykel CPAP mask has a T piece which gives the base of the mask the stability that it needs. The mask has a silicone seal and the under chin is designed to ensure that no leakage takes place.

Suitability Of A Nasal Mask

The nasal mask is triangular in shape and covers the nose only. You should therefore not breathe in through your mouth during therapy. You can however use a chin strap to keep your mouth shut. You can comfortably breathe in the pressurized air when using this mask since the air is not transmitted directly to your nostrils. Instead, the air surrounds the area covered by the mask and you can then breathe it in.

The nasal Fisher and Paykel CPAP mask has different cushion sizes so that you can get the perfect fit. The headgear can be stretched over the head and is made from materials that are of high quality.

Using A Nasal Pillow

The nasal pillow has two pillows which are placed at the edge of your nostrils. The nasal pillow Fisher and Paykel CPAP mask is inflated with air to create a good seal. It has side supports to keep the mask in place during therapy.