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Leaking mask

Posted by theamericanbrit @theamericanbrit, May 2 8:31am

I get a message on my CPAP that the mask needs adjusting, when I do, it still leaks giving me a higher event record. Does anyone know why this happens and how to correct it. Thanks

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Mentor
John, Volunteer Mentor | @johnbishop | May 2 9:40am

@theamericanbrit, I've always had some leakage on my CPAP masks but most of the time it doesn't affect my AHI numbers. Some of the common causes for mask leaks are a mask that doesn't fit well on your face (too big, too small) or isn't a type of mask that works for your normal sleeping position (back, sides, stomach). I'm mostly a side sleeper and get higher AHI numbers when sleeping on my back. I have used several types of full face masks but am currently using Fisher & Paykel Simplus full face mask. Here's some information that might help you figure out why it's happening.

--- CPAP Mask Leaks: Causes and Prevention
https://sleepdoctor.com/cpap/cpap-mask-leaks/
Have you tried other masks or discussed the problem with your sleep medicine doctor?

REPLY
1 reply
theamericanbrit | @theamericanbrit | May 2 9:55am
In reply to @johnbishop "@theamericanbrit, I've always had some leakage on my CPAP masks but most of the time it..." + (show)
@johnbishop

@theamericanbrit, I've always had some leakage on my CPAP masks but most of the time it doesn't affect my AHI numbers. Some of the common causes for mask leaks are a mask that doesn't fit well on your face (too big, too small) or isn't a type of mask that works for your normal sleeping position (back, sides, stomach). I'm mostly a side sleeper and get higher AHI numbers when sleeping on my back. I have used several types of full face masks but am currently using Fisher & Paykel Simplus full face mask. Here's some information that might help you figure out why it's happening.

--- CPAP Mask Leaks: Causes and Prevention
https://sleepdoctor.com/cpap/cpap-mask-leaks/
Have you tried other masks or discussed the problem with your sleep medicine doctor?

Jump to this post

Thank you. I have always used the same mask and never had any issues - until I changed insurance companies and was issued the same CPAP machine and mask. I use the Air Touch mask but maybe the headgear has become stretched so the mask isn’t tight enough. Just a thought

REPLY
mfenn | @mfenn | May 3 8:09am

I switched to a bi-pap 6 months ago. Terrible leakage and AHI. Tried every mask--have Euvora now. I am a mouth breather and also clinched my jaw. I had one molar pulled as a result and got a night mouth guard. Having tried all the suggestions for mouth breathers, none worked. Was so tired I had a mini-meltdown in my doctor's office. The only thing I had left to do was tighten my mask. I know one is not supposed to have it too tight but tightening the mask worked for me. I do have to replace the Euvora a bit more often than others. My AHI and leakage have dropped. I sleep, not weep now.

In sum: They told me it would take some time--it sure did! @theamericanbrit provided some good advice on things you can try. Also, a bit of encouragement. Don't give up. You will find your way.

REPLY
1 reply
mfenn | @mfenn | May 3 10:30am
In reply to @mfenn "I switched to a bi-pap 6 months ago. Terrible leakage and AHI. Tried every mask--have Euvora..." + (show)
@mfenn

I switched to a bi-pap 6 months ago. Terrible leakage and AHI. Tried every mask--have Euvora now. I am a mouth breather and also clinched my jaw. I had one molar pulled as a result and got a night mouth guard. Having tried all the suggestions for mouth breathers, none worked. Was so tired I had a mini-meltdown in my doctor's office. The only thing I had left to do was tighten my mask. I know one is not supposed to have it too tight but tightening the mask worked for me. I do have to replace the Euvora a bit more often than others. My AHI and leakage have dropped. I sleep, not weep now.

In sum: They told me it would take some time--it sure did! @theamericanbrit provided some good advice on things you can try. Also, a bit of encouragement. Don't give up. You will find your way.

Jump to this post

Sorry about that. It was John that gave you the advice.

REPLY
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