Since the development of the first CPAP device in 1981, both the devices themselves and the masks available have undergone numerous changes. The importance of a well-fitting, comfortable mask can't be overstated; mask problems are far and away the most frequent issues I have to deal with in my line of work.
There are many manufacturers of masks, and in turn each have a numbers of selections that change from year to year. All users want a mask that is comfortable above all, and does a good or at least adequate job of sealing against air leaks.
The therapist helping you with the initial instruction during your set-up appointment can be a valuable resource. I always review the results of the sleep study; most, but not all, reports will mention the mask used during the test. I ask the patient whether this particular mask was comfortable or not and if there are no complaints of discomfort, this type of mask will usually be the one that is issued. Some sleep reports will specify the exact brand, model, and size used during the test, others, just the basic style, still others omit any mention of the mask used. A few referring physicians prefer to specify the exact brand, model, and size they wish to be dispensed to the user.
Most companies supplying PAP equipment use masks from several different manufacturers. There are so many models on the market at present that no companies carry every possibly one. If you have a particular preference based on Internet research or advice from a family member of friend, there is no harm in asking the therapist about it. We can make suggestions based on our experience with many past customers and what has or has not worked for them.
If there is no stated preference and no specific mask is prescribed, most therapists tend to rely on models that have tended to be successful most often for their past customers. One advantage offered by the manufacturers used by our company is a 30-day mask exchange program. Through this program, if a customer uses a new mask and decides within the first 30 days that it is not the one they want to use long term (due to discomfort, air leaks, confinement, etc), the mask can be returned to the DME company that issued it and a different one selected with the therapist's help. This is offered at no cost to the customer, and a replacement mask is supplied to the DME company by the manufacturer. More thoughts tomorrow!
" Contact your DME company or doctor with any mask questions you may have, they can help"
By: Martha J. Powell, RRT, CEO
Strategic Medical Sales, LLC
Thank for your sharing. I have a new machine but i don't know how to chose cpap masks until read your blog.
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