Go through CPAP Mask: Why Masks Leak and Solutions more



Sleep Apnea Mask

In order to achieve all the benefits from CPAP Therapy you must be consistently using the CPAP any time you are sleeping. Some of the main reasons you discontinue CPAP therapy is because your CPAP mask is uncomfortable, causes skin irritations, and creates sleep interruption or a combination of any of these.

The most common cause for any or all of these can most likely be linked to a CPAP Mask leaking. Below are four suggestions why you may be experiencing leaks as well as solutions to resolve the issue.

1. If air is leaking into eyes, that usually indicates the mask is too big or too long since the leaks are around the nose. This is why you need to ensure a proper fit when you first purchase your mask. As you may know, one of the side effects of sleep apnea can be weight gain or loss. Your body and facial structure will more than likely change if you experience a significant change. Therefore you may need to be refitted or consider using a different style.

2. If air is leaking around your mouth, and you have recently added facial hair under the nose, this could be cause of the leaking. If hair removal is not an option you may have to consider a slightly different style. Be sure to inform the supplier of any facial hair when selecting your next mask so they can guide you to selecting the best CPAP mask for you.

3. As masks age they will start to leak. As the cushion on the mask ages, the pillows or seals will start to deteriorate and will cause the mask to leak especially if your mask is 6 months or older. Sometimes you can replace the cushions on the mask without having to buy an entire new mask. Contact the supplier and have the make and model of your mask ready to find out if this will be an option for you. As a general note most masks manufacturers recommend replacing a CPAP mask or CPAP cushions on mask every 3-6 months.

4. Your pillow could be pushing against the mask causing the leak. Most people change positions during the night that standard pillows will not accommodate. Special CPAP pillows are designed to allow for all sleeping positions including back, side and even stomach sleepers with minimal contact to the CPAP Mask. Look for CPAP Pillows that not only accommodate the mask but also provide outstanding neck support. Proper neck support promotes consistent airflow in the nostrils from the CPAP machine. Making use of a CPAP Pillow's unique design and sturdiness means it is better suited for any type of CPAP mask and guarantees you a more comfortable night's sleep. Therefore you may not need to replace the mask at all, simply try changing your pillow.

As you know sleep apnea is not just an annoyance, this is a sleep problem that can have potentially serious medical problems so it requires your immediate attention and consistent use. With continued use you may start to feel so much better as you begin to sleep more soundly you may experience more energy, be more alert and could start to feel superior overall. That is why it is so important to address any problems such as leaking masks as soon as possible so you can continue down the path of wellness.


Stephanie Beck, creator of http://www.cpapmaskreview.com, where you can receive a FREE 34 page report packed with valuable tips, definitions, charts, solutions and more to finding the best CPAP Mask for you. Plus 20 videos and a 45 min previously recorded interview with one of today's leading Sleep Apnea Experts.






CPAP Mask: Why Masks Leak and Solutions

Sleep Apnea Mask