You should replace your mask cushion periodically because as it becomes worn, it becomes less effective. The life of a mask cushion depends on use, the oils from your skin, and cleaning. It is always a good idea to inspect your mask routinely; poor care may adversely affect the fit of the cushion and thus performance. To get the longest life from your mask, be sure to wash your face each night before putting on your mask, and wash your mask after each use. Use only original washing up liquid , nothing with perfumes, moisturisers, antibacterial agents, bleaches, etc, and always dry your mask and cushion out of direct sunlight. Poor performance is often the first clue that your cushion may need replacement. Check for small tears or pinholes, anything that might cause a leak. Cats have been known to damage cushions by playing with them and so have children, so you may want to keep your mask out of reach. Also, be sure you don't leave your mask somewhere that receives direct sunlight during the day.

Yes, you will need to replace your headgear occasionally. Like mask cushions, the life of headgear depends on use, the oils from your skin, and care (cleaning etc). Taking good care of your mask is the key to maintaining the best performance and mask fit. Wash your headgear at least once per week and dry it out of direct sunlight. The headgear should be washed by hand, the use of a washing machine will shorten its life. If you have oily skin, you may need to wash it more often. Headgear should last longer than a cushion, but it will depend on use and environment.

Facial muscles change when we lie down and further relax once we are asleep, so it is always best to fit the mask while you are in your sleeping position. If you sleep in a bed with no pillows, fit your mask like that. If you sleep in a recliner, fit your mask that way.

It probably means you have an incorrectly fitted mask. When using a ResMed mask, it is important not to over-tighten the mask system. If you can only get a good seal by over tightening the headgear, you probably have the wrong size cushion or an incorrectly adjusted forehead support. If you are using a ResMed mask that has a MicroFit™ Dial, it is important to note that your clinician has set the dial at the optimal position and adjusting it significantly from that position may cause discomfort.

Mirage masks have a very thin membrane, which will typically seal even with a moustache. The shallow cushion in particular is ideal for patients with a moustache, as they may need to adjust the cushion in closer to the top lip. The shallow cushion allows the user to angle the cushion more and maintain the seal at the bridge of the nose.

Yes. All ResMed mask parts can be purchased separately through ResMed sleepVantage (0800 917 7071) and ResMed Centres for Healthy Sleep. Part numbers (codes used to order) for each part are available on this Web site.

If you mouth breathe or have mouth leaks, then a ResMed full face mask will provide a number of benefits over a nasal mask. A full face mask will stop air loss that can compromise treatment, and it can resolve dry throat and nose problems. If you mouth breathe or have leaks, you will not be receiving your full treatment pressure and thus may not be getting the full benefits of your treatment.

This type of problem is likely occurring due to nasal congestion. With a history of sinus and allergy problems, you may be better treated with a full face mask and/or humidification. You should discuss this with your sleep specialist/clinic.

With a deviated septum, you are likely breathing through your mouth due to your nasal passage being blocked. A full face mask will certainly work for you and would allow you the option of breathing through you nose and/or mouth. If your mouth is dry in the morning, you are probably breathing through your mouth.

Some people just prefer a full face mask, but those who get a therapeutic advantage are those who mouth breathe or experience mouth leaks. Mouth breathing and mouth leak can lead to less effective therapy.

Yes, however the thing to remember is that every mask has slightly different flow characteristics, so if you're using an AutoSetTM device, you'll need to change the mask setting on the user menu when you switch masks.

Even if you don't mouth breathe, you may still experience mouth leaks. Mouth leaks can contribute to decreased treatment effectiveness and consequent symptoms of poor therapy.

Absolutely. Based on one recent study, one could argue that people using bilevel therapy are more likely to benefit from a full face mask because they are more prone to mouth leak and mouth breathing. In the study, data showed that nearly ALL patients on non-invasive positive pressure ventilation (NPPV) experienced some degree of mouth leak and/or mouth breathing. Mouth leak reduces the quality of your sleep and causes sleep fragmentation.

Yes, and switching to a full face mask may eliminate or reduce your need for humidification.

Yes, ResMed full face masks have a special anti-asphyxia valve that opens if your PAP device loses power. This feature allows you to breathe room air in the event of a power failure.

Everyone is different. Some people find that they prefer a full face mask while others prefer a nasal mask. It is really personal preference. However, both our nasal and full face masks utilise the same cushion technology that inflates to form a floating seal, maximising patient comfort.

This may indicate one of several things:
1. incorrect adjustment
2. incorrect assembly
3. incorrect size

It is important to pick a mask that is comfortable and does not place pressure on the sensitive areas of the face, the nasal bridge, and upper lip. We suggest you try on as many as you can, talk to other users, and look at websites.

It should be fine, but if you're using a non-ResMed APAP device, you may want to check with the manufacturer.