CPAP Clinic Sleep Blog

Understanding your sleep health, sleep apnea and CPAP therapy

Different Types of CPAP Masks

What are the differences between the types of CPAP Masks? What should I focus on when deciding on a CPAP Mask? Does my face shape affect the type of mask I should buy?

What are CPAP Masks?

Do you suffer from loud snoring, morning headaches, mood swings, and restless sleep? If so, then attend a sleep study to evaluate yourself for sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder marked by pauses in breathing during sleep. If you are diagnosed with sleep apnea, your doctor will recommend Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP, as the treatment. CPAP is the most popular form of treatment for sleep apnea. CPAP masks are non-invasive and very convenient.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy comprises a CPAP machine and CPAP masks. The aim is to keep your airways open during the time of sleep. The machine delivers pressurized air to the airways through the aid of a mask specially designed for this purpose. CPAP masks are customized to fit snugly over a person’s nose and mouth.

While purchasing a CPAP mask, check to make sure the mask fits you properly as it may otherwise lead to leakage of pressurized air or even worse – allergies, nasal congestions, dry mouth, sores and other side effects. The material of the mask is also very important. It should feel smooth and light on your face and not suffocate you.

The Three Types of CPAP masks:

Full Face Mask

Full-face masks, as the name suggests, cover almost your entire face, from the bridge of your nose to your lower lip and chin. They have additional side straps at the forehead and mouth level to provide secured support, making them less likely to slip off of your face. However, they can feel claustrophobic, making them less popular.

Nasal Masks

Nasal masks cover your whole nose area reaching out till its bridge and are ideal for restless sleepers. They have double side straps at the mouth and forehead level so that the mask will not fall off your face even with frequent changes in sleeping positions. The secure suction action ensures that the air is retained inside the mask. This prevents side affects like watery eyes, dry mouth, stuffy nose and skin allergies.

Nasal Pillow Mask

Nasal pillow masks are ideal for claustrophobic patients. They do not cover the whole face and provide unobstructed vision, so you don’t feel like an alien from a Sci-fi movie. The inserts in nasal pillow masks shoot air directly towards the nose.

With a variety of choices available in each type, it is very easy to choose a CPAP mask that suits your budget and comfort.

For more information on CPAP masks or machines or CPAP mask retail in Toronto, please visit www.cpapclinic.ca or call 1-877-430-CPAP.

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