Category: CPAP Masks

Everyone who has used a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine knows how frustrating mask leaks can be: whistling sounds, dry eyes, and even the risk of an accident.

To effectively treat sleep apnea, a CPAP machine must provide adequate air pressure to prevent airway collapse; any leaks in this airflow impair the efficacy of the treatment. If the air leak is big enough, the patient’s airway may partially or completely collapse again.

Tips on how to find the best mask fit for your particular CPAP mask can be obtained from your Air Liquide Healthcare Sleep Specialist.

In addition, that air doesn’t simply vanish. When a CPAP user’s mask has a leak, air might escape and cause irritation by blowing in their eyes, making a hissing noise, or drying out their mouth and throat. Some of the most common reasons CPAP users stop using the device are the aforementioned side effects, which may seem inconsequential in contrast.

Fortunately, locating and fixing most leaks is a simple process. Learn about the most common reasons for cpap mask leaks and how to fix them here.

See Also: Analyzing the Adverse Effects of a Typical CPAP Mask

How to Prevent CPAP Mask Leaks and Their Causes

1. You have the wrong fit for your CPAP headgear.

Many CPAP mask cushions create a seal by inflating; thus, it may seem counterintuitive that tightening the straps too much could cause a leak. If the mask is too snug, the cushion won’t be able to fully inflate and form a seal.

However, air can get through if the headwear is excessively big and baggy. After activating the ventilation system, your headwear should fit snugly without leaving any gaps, but not so tightly that it hurts.

The Solution: While in your normal sleeping position, try moving your headpiece about. When you’re lying down, your face takes on a different form than when you’re sitting or standing.

2. You’ve Got the Incorrect Size CPAP Frame or Cushion

Despite how obvious it seems; CPAP users frequently wind up with the incorrect size mask. Because there is no universal standard for mask sizes between manufacturers, and because most measurement guides fail to specify the part of the face from which the mask should be sized, this is the case.

This is especially the case if you go out and buy a new mask without first getting it professionally fitted.

How It Works: Our state-of-the-art AI technology detects your anatomical features and suggests the best mask for you. Simply get the app and snap a selfie to get started. Fill out our brief qualification form, and a Sleep Specialist from Air Liquide Healthcare will be in touch.

If you’d rather not use technology, your Specialist can also provide you with a printable sizing guide that is tailored to your mask. Furthermore, they will instruct you on how to measure yourself for a CPAP mask, giving you the assurance that you have made the best possible decision.

3. Your CPAP Machine Is Outdated

Your CPAP mask will eventually wear out from regular use. After some time, the padding will become ineffective. Micro-tears appear in silicone over time. The same goes for your headgear and body. All of these things have the potential to disrupt the mask’s seal and let air escape.

The Solution: Every 2 weeks to 3 months, you should swap out your CPAP cushion or nasal cushions, and every 6 months, you should switch out your mask frame and headgear.

4. Your CPAP Pillow Cover Needs to Be Cleaned

The cushion of your mask might become clogged with debris, oils, and dead skin if you don’t clean it regularly. This buildup is not only a breeding habitat for germs and bacteria, but it may also break down the silicone and cause cracks and splits.

Solution: After each use, wipe clean your mask with a moist cloth or CPAP wipe and wash it weekly in warm, soapy water.

Mask liners are an alternative to the suggested cleaning schedule in case real life gets in the way. Liners for masks lay between the cushion and your face, collecting oils and sweat to keep your mask clean and provide a better seal.

5. Your Sleep Mask Doesn’t Fit Your Personality

It’s important to find a mask that works with your unique sleeping posture and breathing pattern. If you sleep on your side, a full-face mask could not form a tight enough seal to be effective. However, if that side sleeper also breathes through their lips, using a nasal mask could cause them to experience mouth leak. If you choose a CPAP mask that doesn’t go with your lifestyle, you’re less likely to use it consistently.

The Solution: Attempt an Alternate Mask or Mask Design.

A nasal mask or nasal pillow mask is typically prefered by side sleepers, stomach sleepers, and active sleepers. Their low profile and reduced padding could allow for more mobility.

However, a full-face CPAP mask is recommended for people who breathe through their mouths. Or, a chinstrap can be used to avoid mouth leak when wearing a nasal or nasal pillow mask by people who like to breathe through their mouths.

Learn more about the best types of CPAP masks from your Sleep Specialist or do some research on the topic on your own.

Avoid Waking Up Due to a Leaky CPAP Mask

The single most crucial aspect of your sleep therapy is to stick with it. Do not delay in contacting Air Liquide Healthcare Sleep if you have already attempted to fix your mask leak and are still experiencing difficulties. If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep, your personal Sleep Specialist will help you find a solution.

More to read: Position-Specific Considerations When Choosing a CPAP Mask

Consistent usage of your CPAP machine is necessary to reap the full benefits of treatment for sleep apnea, despite the fact that you may experience some unpleasant side effects at first. Therefore, the long-term success of treating your sleep apnea depends on identifying and resolving these issues as soon as possible.

The goal of this article is to help you recognise and cope with the negative effects of cpap masks so that you may get the most out of this life-changing treatment for your sleep apnea.

1. Acne, blisters, and red marks when using a CPAP mask

The skin around your cheeks and nose may become irritated if you use a CPAP mask. There are often three main causes of bumps, rashes, and redness:

• Oils from Your Face Congealing Below the Mask’s Padding: If your CPAP mask is causing skin irritation, you should first examine your cleaning procedures. A buildup of perspiration, facial oils, and saliva over the course of the night can irritate your skin and lead to redness and irritation if your mask isn’t cleaned.
• Overtightened headgear: In order to achieve a good seal sometimes you overtighten, it may be time to change your cushions. It could also mean that you need a larger or smaller cushion. Because the tightness of the mask can cause blisters and redness on your face.
• Mask Material Allergy: Latex allergies may have contributed to CPAP skin irritation in the past, but nowadays, silicone is used in most CPAP masks. Rare as they are, silicone allergies may exist, so you may need to try a gel or cloth mask instead.

Is there a way I can keep myself from getting the red marks?

Over-tightening your CPAP mask can leave red markings, and it can also leave you with nose sores and other skin irritations. Tightening your mask too much can cause air leakage, so don’t do it. Make fine adjustments to the headpiece until the mask fits snugly yet comfortably, making sure not to overtighten it. You may improve the quality of your seal by cleaning your mask cushion, nasal cushions, and nasal prongs every day.

The addition of mask strap pads, a cushioned covering for the headgear straps, might be a nice touch to your CPAP setup if you’re confident in the fit of your mask, haven’t needed to replace it in a while, and clean it regularly.

It’s frustrating to wake up to red stains on your face from your CPAP mask, but luckily, there are a number of products on the market made specifically to treat and prevent these marks.

• Nasal Mask Liners 
• Cheek Cushion
• Full Face Mask Liners 
• Gel Pad

Why is it that I keep getting zits on my nose?

In certain people, especially those with oily or acne-prone skin, the buildup of facial oils under a mask might cause outbreaks along the area where the mask was worn. This reaction can be reduced by cleaning your face every night before putting on the mask and by wiping the mask every morning. 

You may try a nasal pillow mask instead, as it will have less of an impact on your skin if you still break out while using it. If you find yourself breathing through your mouth when using a nasal pillow mask, a CPAP chin strap may help you transition to nasal breathing.

To prevent or at least minimise zits, we advise using the following to maintain a clean mask:

• mask cleansing wipes 
• Unscented Mask Wipes
• Disinfectant 
• Purdoux Aloe Vera and Cotton Travel CPAP Mask Wipes

Although rare, a silicone allergy could be the cause of your acne, therefore you may want to get tested for it by your doctor. If modifying your cleaning routine doesn’t help clear up the acne caused by your CPAP mask, using a gel or cotton mask may be the next best option.

Nose That is Hurting; Why is That so?

Sores inside the nostrils are a common adverse effect of using nasal pillows or prong devices that are too big or the wrong shape for your nose.

If you’re experiencing irritation in your nostrils, you may find relief by switching to a nasal mask with a cradle design, like the AirFit N30i. This mask’s curved nasal cradle design hugs the base of your nose rather than entering it. Additionally, the mucous membrane inside the nose can get painful due to the dry air from the CPAP machine. Though a heated humidifier is ideal for soothing irritable nasal passages, many people also find relief from dryness and irritation by applying moisturiser or coconut oil to their nasal passages during the day.

Vaseline or other lubricants may seem like a quick fix, but they can actually speed up the breakdown of your mask cushion, so resist the urge. Use with caution or avoid altogether because it can weaken the integrity of your seal and cause you to needlessly replace your gear. 

It’s also a good idea to stay away from scented soaps, lanolin-based moisturisers, and oil-based moisturisers if you want to keep your seal intact.

Hurting Nose Bridge?

If the straps of your headgear are causing irritation, you may be wearing them too tightly. Overtightening your headgear can create discomfort, and it’s usually a sign that your mask is either too big, too old, or not the appropriate style for your needs if you’re doing it to prevent air leaks.

A different mask shape should be considered if nasal bridge discomfort persists after trying a variety of cushion sizes. With a nasal cradle option, like the DreamWear Nasal Mask, you won’t have to worry about any discomfort in the bridge of your nose. 

To alleviate discomfort on the bridge of the nose, try a nasal pillow mask if a nasal cradle mask doesn’t work for you. Contact Air Liquide Healthcare to get a mask that come with a Fit Pack so you may try different cushion and nasal pillow sizes to discover the one that works best for you if you suspect that this is the issue.

Lots of Australians have sleep apnea, a breathing disorder treated by a CPAP machine. Many people assume that because CPAP therapy requires the use of a mask, CPAP users must sleep on their back because a mask is too bulky to allow them to comfortably sleep on their side or stomach.

However, some CPAP masks are bulkier than others and there are a variety of designs to choose from. Some CPAP users are required to use only one specific type of cpap mask, while others can select a mask that best accommodates their prefered sleeping posture.

When selecting a CPAP mask, it’s critical to adhere to the recommendations of your sleep doctor. Talk to them first to see if your prefered mask type will work for you before making a switch. Because of their unique designs, not all CPAP users can benefit from the same mask.

Position-Specific Considerations When Choosing a CPAP Mask

Full-face, nasal, and nasal pillow masks are the three most common types of CPAP masks. Comparatively, nasal masks are the smallest option, while full-face masks are the bulkiest because they enclose the nose and mouth as well. Because they only enclose the nostrils and don’t have a rigid frame, nasal pillow masks are the most discrete option.

Sleeping in a position that presses on the CPAP mask is not only uncomfortable, but can also reduce the mask’s ability to seal and reduce the effectiveness of your treatment. The headgear for a CPAP mask, such as the buckles and anchor straps, can also be a source of distraction if they are too rigid or made of hard plastic. 

The mask’s footprint (length, width, and depth) and the headgear’s contact point with your face are both important factors to think about when selecting a CPAP mask. The objective is to find a mask that works while still allowing you to have a good night’s rest.

Masks for Side Sleepers Using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

If you suffer from sleep apnea, one of the best things you can do is switch to sleeping on your side, where gravity won’t be able to push against your airway like it does when you’re on your back or stomach. Side sleepers have it rough when it comes to finding a comfortable CPAP mask.

People who sleep on their sides may find comfort in using a nasal pillow mask, which has a low profile and sits slightly above the pillow. (Some people who sleep on their sides actually press their face into the pillow, but nasal pillow masks usually still maintain their seal.) 

Many side sleepers also find success with nasal masks, which can be worn over the nose or just the bridge. Best models have not only good seals, but also cushioned, adaptable headgear. While these additions do help, a CPAP-friendly pillow may still be necessary for side sleepers who have trouble with even a nasal mask’s bulk.

Masks for Back Sleepers Using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

Sleeping on one’s back is the most mask-friendly position for CPAP users, as even full-face masks can be worn comfortably. Because of the CPAP mask’s design, sleeping on one’s back may be the most comfortable position; however, this position also increases the risk of airway collapse. 

If your doctor knows you sleep on your back and hasn’t suggested you switch positions, you should be able to use any mask that meets your needs without any discomfort. Also, it’s much harder to lose your mask if you sleep this way, though some people have trouble with one-strap headgear while sleeping on their backs.

CPAP Masks with Stomach Sleepers in View

People who sleep on their stomachs have a few extra considerations when shopping for a CPAP mask because this position is so uncommon. Many masks leak air and are uncomfortable to wear in this position. Your mask’s size may also require you to hold your head in an awkward position, which can put strain on your neck and awaken pain or stiffness in the morning.

It is for these reasons that a nasal pillow mask is required for most people to sleep on their stomachs. Nasal pillows are great for this because of their low profile; you won’t have to worry about it falling out of your nose or causing you discomfort no matter how you choose to sleep. 

Nasal pillow mask users, like everyone else, need a pillow large enough to hold the device. There are masks with tubes that rest along the temples; this can restrict airflow, depending on how you sleep and how firm your pillow is.

How to Go About Purchasing a CPAP mask?

Both CPAP machines and masks are medical devices that can only be purchased with a valid prescription. Nonetheless, you can get a CPAP mask from a number of different sources. It is still common practise for online pharmacies to ask for a valid prescription, which is verified through a fax or photo upload. You will be able to make a purchase once your prescription has been validated.

The best CPAP machines and CPAP masks are typically found at online retailers, though brick-and-mortar medical equipment retailers are also common and may be more convenient if you need a mask immediately. 

Finally, the variety of CPAP masks sold by sleep clinics and specialists is often quite small. While buying from a sleep clinic will likely increase your costs, doing so will allow your doctor to more accurately monitor your progress.

Proper Mask Fit with the Help of a CPAP Pillow

Your sleep specialist should guide you in selecting a CPAP mask, as not all CPAP patients are candidates for every type of mask. When using a CPAP machine, a mask can restrict your ability to sleep in your prefered position. A CPAP pillow may alleviate this problem. 

These pillows have a unique shape that makes them ideal for sleeping with a mask, even when lying on your side. Also, some models provide additional cervical support to keep your mask in place and alleviate neck pain.

More to read: Common Causes of CPAP Mask Leaks and Their Simple Solutions