subject: Sleep Apnea Mask Solutions To Improve Sleep Apnea Therapy [print this page] Sleep Apnea Mask Solutions To Improve Sleep Apnea Therapy
How can a sleep apnea mask help improve sleep apnea therapy? What is the secret to a successful sleep apnea therapy? Patience, discipline and a very comfortable sleep apnea mask. Uncomfortable sleep apnea masks can make a person give up on sleep apnea therapy. When this happens, they are subjected to the nightly dangers of an apnea attack. Continuous positive airway pressure (cpap) therapy is often a nightly challenge for a sleep apnea sufferer. Although cpap therapy has been proven to be 100% effective, discomfort is the main problem. However, these sleep apnea mask discomforts have solutions.
Dilemma #1 Sleep apnea mask discomfort due to incorrect size
If your sleep apnea mask feels uncomfortable, the size and fit might be the problem. A sleep apnea mask comes in sizes small, medium, large and extra large. One rule when it comes to buying sleep apnea mask is: when in doubt, choose the smaller size. A smaller sized mask is the safer choice to ensure that the fit would be snug. This is important to prevent leaks. However, sometimes, even a smaller size just won't fit. The problem might be that the contour of your face really doesn't fit the mask.
Solution: If your current sleep apnea mask is really uncomfortable, then prepare your wallet. You might need to purchase a new one. But this time, you have to be smarter when buying a new sleep apnea mask. If you are claustrophobic and your current mask is making you feel uncomfortable, try a new design. You can opt for a nasal mask or a nasal pillow. If you have been prescribed with a high cpap pressure, then nasal pillows are not recommended. If you want to stick to the standard full face mask, be aware of your face structure. Measure the length of your nose and mouth. Be sure that you get the correct size this time. Try on several designs and sizes. It would be best to consult with your doctor for alternative options. If everything still doesn't work out, you can try customized sleep apnea masks. This sleep apnea mask is custom-made and molded specifically to the shape of your face. Prepare to pay more but it just might be worth it. In fact, anything that would help you maintain cpap therapy is always worth it.
Dilemma #2 Pressure sores, skin irritation and skin redness
Leaks, ill fitting masks and dirty masks can all lead to sores, irritation and redness. When the air leaks it dries the skin causing it to get sores. The tendency of most users when leaks occur is to tighten the sleep apnea mask. Tightening the mask can lead to pressure sores and skin redness. A mask that is not regularly cleaned can lead to irritation and infection.
Solution: A sleep apnea mask can easily breed germs and bacteria. That's why it is very important to wash it daily and thoroughly clean it once a week. You can use warm water to rinse it daily. For your once a week thorough cleaning, don't use harsh chemicals to clean it. Do not use alcohol based product. There are special cleaning solutions for sleep apnea masks available in the market. You can also use a very mild liquid soap and warm water. Let it air dry in a very clean area. You can also try getting a sleep apnea pillow. It effectively prevents leaks by keeping your mask in place even if you change sleeping position.
Dilemma#3 Nasal congestion and dry mouth when using a sleep apnea mask
Dry mouth and stuffy nose are common to sleep apnea patients during treatment. Mouth breathers usually wake up with a dry mouth. Air tends to escape when they unconsciously open their mouth while sleeping. This reduces the success rate of your sleep apnea treatment. The correct air pressure is not being received by your airway reducing effectiveness of the treatment.
Solution: A humidifier can help lessen dryness and prevent nosebleeds. For nasal congestion, you can take a decongestant tablet an hour prior to sleeping. A saline nasal spray can also help to unclog nasal stuffiness. A chin strap is recommended for mouth breathers to prevent them from opening their mouths while asleep.
