Sleep Apnea Masks

Sleep apnea masks are just one part of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine, but they're a very important part!

Considering that continuous positive airway pressure is the Number 1 treatment for sleep apnea, and has proven to be extremely effective when used correctly, avoiding the 'discomfort issue' puts you ahead of the game.

If you take the time to do your research, and get the best possible 'fit' when choosing between sleep masks, your treatment is much more likely to be successful.

Types of sleep apnea mask

• Nasal Mask
  This fits over your nose and delivers air through your nasal passages.


• Oral Mask
  Fits over your mouth and delivers air through your mouth. A good idea for those who are night-time 'mouth breathers'. It's also good for people who wear glasses as it doesn't get in their way.


• Full Face Mask
  This type fits over both your nose and mouth, delivering air to both. It is also a good choice if you breathe through your mouth at night. If you tend to be claustrophobic though it may not be your best bet.


• Nasal Pillows
  This variation isn't actually a mask as such. Instead, it consists of small, nasal inserts that deliver the air directly into your nasal passages.

All of the above sleep apnea masks are then connected to some sort of 'headgear', which in turn connects to a flexible hose attached at the other end to your sleep apnea breathing machine.

Both the masks and headgear can vary tremendously in size, shape, material etc. There are many different manufacturers of CPAP equipment, and each have their own range of styles, features and options.

It's very important to do your research when deciding between sleep apnea masks, and your doctor can also help and give you advice about this if necessary.

Tips for choosing a sleep apnea mask

If it's not a snug fit, and is either too loose or too tight, there will be air leaks. These will prevent your sleep apnea machine from achieving the correct air pressure to relieve your symptoms.

Adjustable straps hold the mask in place, and the position of these can vary between products. Optional chin-straps are also generally available.

The actual sleep apnea masks themselves most often consist of a hard plastic shell, with a softer silicone around the edges to help it 'seal' more closely to your face. Some models also come with gel cushions, nasal pillows and other features.

Newer models are now available which have softer, more flexible shells, some made from gel or foam-type materials. These are more able to be 'molded/reshaped' to fit closely to the contours of your face.

Get comfortable!

Luckily, there are several great moisturizers specifically designed to treat this sort of problem. Or, you can just use your own favorite moisturizer if that works for you. It's best to avoid petroleum based products though.

Saline nose sprays, special CPAP nasal moisturizers and eye drops can relieve any dryness or irritation in your nose or eyes, caused by the airflow from your sleep apnea machine.

Overall....

This means you'll be able to break free from the health risks and misery caused by your sleep apnea and finally get a good night's sleep.

What's that worth? Priceless :o)

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