Can anyone tell me how to find the right mask? Do you just go with what the sleep center recommends you use or how are you able to try other masks to see if one is a better fit? How often to you try a different one? Is the one you use in the sleep center when undergoing CPAP titration the same one they'll prescribe? Any recommendations on them? Help!

When I went for my titration study, the sleep center I went to (Univ of Michigan) had two masks I could use.  The first one they tried on me was a nasal mask (covering my nose completely).  I'm not sure what brand/model it was, but when they put it on me it was very uncomfortable on my upper lip.  I told them so, and they then pulled out a Swift nasal pillow model for me to try.  It was much more comfortable than the nasal mask (and likely the nasal mask would have been fine if the headgear had been adjusted properly for me), so I used the Swift for my study.

The study results listed the Swift, but the prescription from my doctor just read, "CPAP machine with c-flex, humidifier, mask, tubing."    I ended up getting a Breeze nasal mask from my DME company when I got my equipment, but have since switched to a Mirage Activa nasal mask, which I've found to be more comfortable.

My recommendation would be to try on as many masks as they'll let you try, so you can feel how they are.  Masks are a very subjective thing - read all you can about various types to see which ones might be worth trying for you (based on your sleeping position, etc).


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--Frank (FJC)

it also helps if the supplier has a range of different brands of masks and is kind and patient

Finding the right mask is everything!

Each of us has a different facial structure, which means you might have a great experience with a mask that most others don't like.  The converse could also be true.  If you can try on different masks, with the machine running and you lying down, you'll be able to tell which one fits you best.  The challenge with all masks is to get one that doesn't leak, especially when you change positions.

I haven't tried a full face mask; most say it's heavy enough you don't want one unless you can't be fitted with a nasal mask or nasal pillows.  Weight makes a difference when you change position during the night (from back to side, or one side to the other), as the weight could make a small change in the position of the mask against your face.

Nasal masks are more "petite" than full face masks.  Most modern masks use a seal with two layers of silicone; the space between the two layers fill up with air and conform quite well to the shape of your face, even when you move.  Some have adjustments at the bridge of the nose/forehead to accommodate different bridge of the nose shapes (I like those) - and not all masks with that adjustment are alike!  Where the mask attaches to the hose, there's generally a swivel piece to allow the hose to move when you do, and to prevent you from getting wrapped up in the hose.  All masks have an exhilation port, which allows air to escape so you don't rebreate the same old air; check where the air blows out to see if it'll awaken your partner.  They're always coming out with new masks; bring an open mind to your supplier.

Nasal pillows are more wonderful than you'd initally think.  Because they interface directly with your nostrils, they can be less likely to develop leaks - but a good fit, with the right size interface is still important.  I was amazed at how lightweight the Mirage Swift is; it seemed not to move at all when I turn.  Unfortunately, it blows air on my spouse.

My sleep center was a completely different entity from my DME supplier, so I don't know how mask selection works when the sleep center and the supplier are one and the same.  I used a different model mask for my sleep study than I ever purchased; my supplier could tell immediately the mask I'd used for my sleep study didn't fit the bridge of my nose properly.

Some suppliers only carry a few models - and only one or two brands.  If your supplier is one of them, don't believe that you must choose from among a very limited selection, especially if none seems right for you.  They can generally order others.  The therapists who talk to you quite a bit will have good advice for you, because they ask other CPAP users about their experiences, and they pass that advice on to other patients.  I see one who's energetic, talkative, and with a lot of advice; I enjoy seeing him to get the latest mask news.

Good luck!