Following my previous posts on comparions between the F/P Flexfit 431 and the Oracle 452 Oral Mask (referenced above), I decided to order the Oracle product, even thought two people suggested the Flexfit 431 (neither had tried the Oracle). I very much like the product and the oral mask fits well, allows for sleep in almost any position and can be used with or without the single strap. The problem I 'm experiencing is with the nose leaks. The direction for the mask, suggest the use of one of the three different sized nasal plugs for about two weeks until you "re-train" your body to mouth breath only. For me, the nose plugs are hard to fit for an effective leak seal and I sometime "blow out" the plugs (my machine is set at 14/8) during the night which means I have to get up and manipulate the plug (not easy when your half asleep) back into to place. Sometime I forget the whole CPAP compliance thing and go back to sleep. Also, prepare for major desert mouth, even with the humidifier on 5 (highest setting), but the trade-off is not having a mask.

Now I am going to order the Flexfit 431 and I hope this will be just the right step, this mask thing can get expensive!

Finally, I have been on one mask or another for over a month. I know that they say it takes 4-6 weeks to notice a difference, but I'm not even close to seeing any improvements (I'm just as tired as ever). I hope I'm not wasting my time.


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Soli Deo Gloria