High pressure tactics

[dsrtao]

I just spent an hour with a respiratory therapist trying out different masks for my CPAP. I've been using the machine for two years now, and never once was there any hint that I could try different masks without buying them first. Oy.

I now have a new full-face mask that seems more robust than the Respironics ComfortFull 2 (which either breaks at the nose joint or at the bag-pipe seal*) and also a new nose-only mask that seems very comfortable -- I'll see if I can keep my mouth shut at night.


*I call it the bag-pipe seal because when it breaks, it turns the mask into a two note bagpipe. It's hard for anyone else in the house to sleep when that happens, and impossible for me.

Comments

[baron-elric.livejournal.com]

When I was first diagnosed with sleep apnea I tried the surgical route. It didn't work. As time has passed I've run into increasingly better data on effectiveness of the surgery, and it sounds as though it helps about forty percent of those who have it.

I've been using CPAPs for nine years now. Initially I used a mask that just covered the nose, but couldn't keep my mouth from opening. The chin straps were no help. The full-face mask has been a godsend for me, and I hope it will help you as well.

[dsrtao]

Actually, the other way around -- I've been using a full-face mask, and I'm going to try out a nose mask now.

40% isn't a good enough success rate to tempt me into surgery. Thanks for the info.