The first treatment for Sleep Apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (or CPAP). CPAP therapy is a method of keeping a person’s airway open. It delivers pressurized air through their nose, mouth, or both. A mask must be comfortable enough to use regularly and fit properly for CPAP therapy.
Your doctor will help you choose the right CPAP machine for your needs. There are more than 9,000 combinations of masks available with many customizable options. While having many options can increase your chances of finding the perfect fit, it can also make it difficult to find the right one.
You can learn about the differences between each type of CPAP Mask to help you choose the best CPAP mask for you.
Cpap Mask Types
There are many mask options available for CPAP.
- Nasal masks
- Nasal pillow masks
- Oronasal masks
The most commonly used masks for CPAP therapy are nasal and oronasal. Experts recommend that a person first try a nasal mask and then experiment with other mask options if they have any problems. The best mask is a key factor in determining the success of CPAP therapy.
Nasal Masks
Nasal masks can be used to push pressurized air through your nose. There are two types of nasal masks. The first covers the entire nose, with a frame that rests on the bridge and upper lip. The other is only for the upper lip and has prongs that reach directly into the nostrils. Each type is attached to the face by a strap that attaches behind your head.
Nasal masks have several advantages over other types of CPAP masks.
- More comfortable generally
- Fewer air leak issues
- CPAP machines require lower pressure
- Use for longer periods
- Cheaper
Nasal Pillows
Nasal pillows can be more comfortable than nasal masks. Nasal pillows are made of soft rubber cones which seal at the nostril’s entrance and reduce pressure.
Some people may prefer to use naal pillows, such as:
- People with facial hair
- People who love to read or watch TV in their beds.
- Claustrophobia is a condition that affects people who are afraid of being alone.
- People who are looking for something simple to use and take off.
- People who lie on their backs while they sleep
Oronasal Masks
Oronasal masks are used to deliver air through the nose or mouth. These masks may be a good option for those who suffer from “mouth leaks” when using nasal or nasal pillow CPAP Masks. Mouth leaks are caused by the CPAP machine’s pressurized air escaping through the mouth.
Oronasal masks are more effective than nasal masks at reducing mouth leakage. Oronasal covers have similar benefits and effectiveness to nasal masks in terms of CPAP therapy.
Other Masks
Other masks may be an option, even though they are not often prescribed.
Full-Face Masks – These masks provide full coverage and sit on a frame that extends between the forehead and the space between the lower lips (between the chin).
Oral Interfaces – This mask is only for the mouth. It may be suitable for those with problems with their nasal airways or who are uncomfortable wearing headgear.
Finding The Best Mask
Research continues to determine if certain characteristics, such as age, body size, gender, nose shape, and body type, can affect which mask should be used.
There are some things you should ask your doctor when choosing your mask.
- Are you a fan of facial hair?
- Do you mainly breathe through your mouth when you sleep?
- Do you like to sleep in different positions?
- Do you feel claustrophobic or numb?
- What are your typical activities before you go to sleep?
- Do you consider physical intimacy more important than sleep for your partner?
