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cleachman
+0 points
·
over 5 years
ago
Original Poster
I have been using this mask for a little over one month now. It is extremely comfortable and easy to use. However, for the past several nights I have noticed air exiting from the front of the mask (not leaking) and air exiting where the tubing connects to the mask.
I think it's unlikely that this is normal and simply not noticed before. Please help me understand, please.
About all I can suggest is putting your machine into the mask fit mode and when wearing the mask check carefully or have someone else check carefully for leaks and potential damage. I believe on the DreamWear mask there are vents near the nose and at the top of the head that are intentional, and are intended to purge the mask so that CO2 does not build up.
I have the same mask and recently went back to the medical supply offices because I thought it was leaking a bit too much and found out that the nasal cushion needs to be exchanged for a new one every 2 weeks and mine was almost 3 months old.
From a GOOGLE search "How often should I change my CPAP nasal pillow?"
The CPAP mask itself—that is, the harder plastic portion—can be replaced about once every three months. The cushion (or nasal pillows) should be replaced once or twice per month.Jun 23, 2017
This is in keeping with what my sleep therapist instructor also said.
You might find this thread on reasonable replacement frequency I initiated some time ago of interest. My conclusion is that there is lobbying going on by the industry and over compliant politicians setting regulations for Medicaid. Would be interesting to dig into it deeper to actually follow the money, but I pay my own way, and can't be bothered.
Oh my gosh - I just reread your post....the nasal pillow has a small opening at the front that does allow your "exhale" to escape and at the connection point on top of your mask there is a second "exhalation" point. This is totally normal and threw me for a loop the first time I realized that that air was going to blow out all night long.
This design of mask with the tubes going up the side of the face results in quite a bit of dead space in the mask. If it is not purged with fresh air, CO2 can build up and cause issues. That must be why they purge it in two places. Most masks only have one area of purge exit, normally close to where the hose meets the mask.
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