Important factors when selecting a Mask:
Comfort
- Contact your clinician and get another mask. Your quality of life, possibly even your life, depends on it. In some countries, insurance coverage may be an issue. Talk to your clinician or insurance provider to learn about your options
- Ask your clinician to double-check the mask size and fit. Most masks come in several sizes. The first one you try may not be the best one
- Ask your clinician if you can try a different style of mask. Most manufacturers produce several mask styles. While one may not work for you, another may be perfect
- Find out about different mask configurations. Find out which one makes you most comfortable
This seems obvious, but unfortunately, many patients stop using their PAP device early on because they simply don't like the mask. The mask does not have to be uncomfortable, and it certainly shouldn't hurt.
It will be strange at first, just as wearing glasses or contacts is strange at first. However, you should be able to get used to it. If you cannot adapt to your mask, try these suggestions:
Ease of Fit
- Ask your clinician to show you how to fit the mask. Demonstrate that you can do it
- Ask if there are any fitting guides you can use. If your clinician doesn't have any, call the mask manufacturer or check their website
- Call the mask manufacturer if you have problems. They may have fitting guides or helpful hints
Your clinician will fit your mask initially, but once you take it apart to wash it, you'll have to fit it yourself. Make sure you understand how to fit the mask properly.
Quietness
Some people find the white noise of the PAP device and mask soothing, but others need complete quiet to sleep. If you prefer silence to white noise, make sure you get a mask that won't keep you awake. Look for the following characteristics.
Large exhalation ports: the more space available for air to escape, the less noise the mask will make.
Our masks are designed to minimize noise.
Convenience
The mask may fit you perfectly, but if it's so inconvenient that you won't use it, it's not doing you any good. Try to find a mask with the following features.
- It's easy to put back together when you take it apart. Remember, the first few times you put it together may be difficult. Make sure you have a fitting guide
- Fitting it on a nightly basis doesn't take forever. If you have to refit a mask every time you put it on, you'll be less likely to use it when you're so tired you can't think of doing anything besides falling asleep.
Air Venting
Check the position of the exhalation port on the mask. Make sure the air flowing from that port won't disturb you or your partner. For example, if the exhalation port is placed squarely in the middle of the mask and there's no cover to divert airflow, the air can blow straight into your partner's face.