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Mask insights - newbie

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tallguy98 +0 points · 8 months ago Original Poster

3 weeks into my CPAP therapy, I think I am in the old story of the prince (not princess) and the pea. I have tried three full-face masks and can't find one that is just right. Complicating matters, I am 6'6" and just under 300 lbs so "one size fits all" usually doesn't fit me. I am a side sleeper.
My sleep study showed severe apnea.

I started therapy on a Resmed 10 autoset unit wearing a Resmed F30 full mask - I mouth breathe if on my back during sleep. After 4-5 days I felt like I was constantly struggling for air - the cushion was mostly blocking my nostrils as the small/med cushion (largest size offered) didn't line up well.

My tech gave me an F20 airtouch full face mask with a gel cushion to reduce leakage. It worked pretty well but ended up shifting on my face no matter how loose or tight I made it, and the bridge of my nose was sore, even with medical tape in place, in the morning. I did have AHI in the 4-6 range per Oscar.

So for my Medicare-allowed switch, I moved to an F&P Evora full mask. Once I got the correct (large) cushion and the XL-sized headgear, I thought I had the solution.....I align the mask so my nose can sit in the middle as I put the mask on, but every morning I feel like my nose has been pushed up and is so sore. I like the mask otherwise and have had little leakage. My results have been mostly single-digit AHI so maybe I have to live with it.

If you have been through this kind of effort and have any advice, in advance I appreciate it.

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Sierra +0 points · 8 months ago Sleep Patron

I tried a couple of full face masks, including the F20, and just could not make them work for the same issues you are having. But, many do, so there must be solutions. I came across a YouTube video on the Evora the other day, so if you find it, there may be some tips there.

My solution was to go to a nasal pillow mask (P10) and use mouth taping to stop the mouth breathing. OSCAR can be a help in identifying excessive leakage issues.

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tallguy98 +0 points · 8 months ago Original Poster

Thank you Sierra, I was thinking of the same approach. I am having a followup with the Dr in a couple of weeks, so may see how to try the nasal pillow approach

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