It is not an easy task to find the right CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) nasal mask because there are many different brands on the market. Additionally, nose masks come in a lot of different shapes, sizes and styles that make it difficult to select the best fitting mask. In order to find your perfect mask, it is important to understand the following:
. Sleeping habits
. Breathing needs
. The comfort levels of a particular mask
In the subsequent post, we shall show you some of the factors you should consider while choosing a CPAP nose mask. Moreover, we shall also highlight the types of nose masks and also focus on some of the top brands available in the market. Without further ado, let’s get right into it.
Types of CPAP Nasal Masks
1. Nasal Pillow
They are the most common CPAP masks due to their minimalist design. They are the smallest of the nasal masks as they rest on the upper lip and have two tubes that are inserted into the nostrils. Nasal pillows are secured into place by straps which are fastened on the head.
Benefits of Nasal Pillows
. They are very light thus ideal for people who do not like the feeling of too much stuff on their faces.
. A person can comfortably read or watch T.V while wearing them
. Allows a person to wear spectacles
. They greatly reduce air leakage because they are connected directly to the nostrils.
. Ideal for restless sleepers who turn a lot in their sleep
2. Nasal Masks
Nasal masks are also very popular also because they come in a wide range of sizes and shapes. They cover the whole nose and they rest on the bridge of the nose. This makes it very easy to find the perfect fit.
Benefits of Nasal Masks
. Allow more natural airflow
. Cater for a wide range of facial structures
. Works well even for side sleepers since they are well secured into place3. Full Face Masks
They cover the whole nose, mouth and most part of the face.
There are also hybrid facial masks which have tubes that are inserted into the nostrils in similar fashion with the nasal pillows.
Above are the three main types of CPAP masks. All have their advantages and disadvantages
Factors to consider while buying a CPAP Nasal Mask
Comfort
One of the greatest factors to consider before buying a CPAP mask is the comfort of the same. If the mask is uncomfortable, then you will not be able to sleep well. It is therefore prudent to buy an at ease mask.
Fit
As earlier stated, different masks come with different fits. In order to avoid misplacement of the mask during sleep, it is important to find one that fits you perfectly. Different people have different facial structures; therefore buy a mask that fits well with your facial structure.
Size
As it is with fit, it is important to choose a mask that is of the appropriate size. A very large CPAP mask will fit poorly and come off easily. On the other hand, a very tight one will be very uncomfortable, therefore choose the mask that is of your size.
Best CPAP Nasal Masks
Not all nasal masks are created equal as some are better in terms of functionality than others. Highlighted below are the best CPAP nasal masks.
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This is one of the best full face CPAP nasal masks in the market. It is not only light but also very comfortable. A very large percentage of people like it since it fits perfectly on the face. Additionally, it is also very durable.
Key Features
. Very light compared to other full face masks.
. It features a very good seal technology (infinitySeal technology) which makes it economical since no air gets lost.
. It is very comfortable on the face since it has silicon cushions.
. It is extremely durable
. Due to its seal technology, the CPAP mask works very well even when the pressure is high
. It also comes with a clear line of vision so a person can even watch the T.V
. It has a very soft nasal bridge to ensure maximum comfort to the wearer
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The Resmed Airfit N20 is one of the best pillow nasal masks in the market as it is a well-adapted nasal pillow mask. It fits very well to all facial features because it has adjustable straps to fit all facial structures well. Additionally, it has a very minimalist design which is a welcome relieve since it is not obstructive.
Key Features
. It has very good design which makes it fit very well into all facial structures
. It has a minimalist design so that the user does not feel claustrophobic
. It is non-obstructive and the user can wear spectacles and watch the television
. It has a very secure seal which makes it appropriate even for high pressure usage.
. It has a flexible frame which makes it very easy to fit into the users’ nasal bridge
. The headgear has a padding which makes the mask more comfortable to wear
. The user does not suffer from any red marks or irradiations because the mask has a flexible head gear
. It has a quick release elbow which makes it possible to separate the mask from the tubing system without removing the mask
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The advantage of the Philips Respironics Full Face Mask is that it is both light and minimalist in design. It is also very stylish and also has a quiet exhalation system.
Key Features
. Has a very minimalist design and it is also very comfortable on the wearer
. It has a quiet exhalation system which makes it easier for the patient to get enough rest from sleep
. It is also very stylish
. Its frame system is also universal making it compatible with many tubing systems
. Its exhalation is quiet and as such the patient can get enough sleep
. It has a short tube and also disconnects from the tubing system very fast
. It does not have any pressure pints
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It is a very appropriate face mask for side sleepers. In fact, with the gas mask, you can comfortably sleep in any position. Additionally, the patient can rotate 360 degrees without disconnecting the mask from the CPAP machine- thus its name 360.
Key Features
. Allows the patient a 360 degrees placement on the face
. It is very comfortable on side sleepers
. It is the most diverse CPAP mask since patients can choose the position they place it
. It is comfortable to the wearer since it has a padding.
. They are durable
CONCLUSION
CPAP Nasal Face Masks are extremely vital for patients who need oxygen. As such it is important to know what to look for when buying a CPAP mask. The key feature on every mask highlighted above will help you make an informed buying decision.
Click here, for more info on the best oximeters available.