CPAP Full Face Mask

A CPAP full face mask is used with a continuous positive airway pressure machine, which is also known as CPAP. The mask is attached to your face with a type of headgear. The mask should seal well, fit comfortably, and leave no marks on your face. Generally, these masks are a little heavier than a nasal mask.

This CPAP mask, which is usually shaped like a triangle, covers the nose and mouth. Sleep apnea suffers who breathe through their mouths usually require this type of device.

Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person stops breathing for several seconds while they are sleeping. Cessation of breathing happens without your knowing it and typically occurs multiple times during each hour.

By inhibiting the ability for air to get to the lungs, sleep apnea can put you at risk for serious health conditions including heart problems, high blood pressure, and stroke.

In addition, sleep apnea can leave you feeling tired and lethargic and can promote depression and headaches. Loud snoring and gasping sounds during sleep are associated with the condition. It can also be brought on by certain medications, obesity, asthma, alcohol and drug use, or other factors.

Someone who has been tested and found to have sleep apnea may require treatment in the form of breathing therapy with a CPAP machine. The CPAP machine forces a steady, appropriate supply of oxygen into your airways while you sleep, enabling you to get a restful night's sleep and reduce your risk of dangerous health complications.

CPAP mask types 

There are three types of CPAP masks and each come in a variety of styles and materials to help you maximize comfort and reduce air leakage while you sleep. A nasal mask fits only over your nose and delivers a continuous flow of air through your nasal passages. An oral mask just covers your mouth and a CPAP full face mask is a combination of both. The mask is positioned over your nose and mouth and delivers air to both.

All above masks have adjustable headgear and are connected to your sleep apnea machine with a flexible hose where the air is delivered.

Masks and headgear come in a variety of sizes and materials to accommodate the comfort needs of each individual. The key is to find a CPAP full face mask that fits snugly to your head face. If it's too small or too large, it will be uncomfortable and your breathing treatment will not be as effective.

Caring for your mask

Your mask should be washed daily in warm water and baby shampoo. The device should be left to air dry. Do not use antibacterial soaps or any other heavy soap on the mask, including soaps with lotions or lanolin in them.

Some CPAP machine manufacturers sell cleaners especially for the devices. Also, full face masks should be replaced every three to six months, or as directed by the manufacturer.

Related Information - CPAP Full Face Mask

What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep Apnea Treatmtent Machines
More on CPAP Full Face Masks
Sleep Apnea Pillows
Sleep Apnea Test

› Full Face CPAP Mask








Share Sleep Tips

Do you have a great tip to share with others who are struggling with sleep? What works for you might help someone else. 
Click here to post >>



Mobility and Disability Resources