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Chin straps- how effective are they?
#1
Chin straps- how effective are they?
I got my first CPAP machine this week and am trying to learn as much as I can about how to make this thing work.

I was given a Philips Nuance nasal pillow to use as my "mask." When the clinic asked me if I sleep with my mouth open or closed, I couldn't give them a definitive answer (I sleep alone, however my mother and a former partner can attest to my frequent snoring). I have to admit with all the wires they put on me and the video taken during the test, they couldn't determine if I did indeed sleep with my mouth open. I did snore during the test, using a full mask, so I can only conclude that they don't use the incidence of snoring as a single determinant of sleeping with an open mouth.

Nevertheless, they suggested I start with the nasal pillows and see what happens.

So far, it's been rough but I've tried to keep to my therapy of a minimum 4 hours use per night (I don't think I've gotten any sleep since I started using it). I used a full mask for the test and it left a mark on my nose so ideally I would like to stick with the nasal pillows. However, I'm also looking into adding a chin strap to keep my mouth closed. (I should add that I took a sleeping pill during the CPAP test so I wasn't all that bothered by the full mask until I noticed the red mark and soreness in my nose bridge the next day.)

Does anyone have any experience using the two together- the nasal pillows along with a chin strap? And whether the combination is effective in avoiding the face mask?

My setting is 6, btw.

Thank you
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#2
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
Yes, I use the 2 together. I went from a full face mask to nasal pillows and a chinstrap. My AHI went from a 6.83 to 2.31 overnight. I've tried 2 different styles of chinstraps; one that resembled a small Velcro belt and the other I refer to as the Hannibal Lector model. The manufacturer calls it a "Ruby chinstrap". I know that they are sold at suppliers #1 and 26 but probably everyone sells them. The "HL" model stays put easier and will conform to your facial features over time making it very comfortable. The belt version kept slipping off. I've found that the chinstrap helps develop muscle memory and I can leave it off for several days without any problems.

Remember, what works for one person may not for another.

Good Luck!
Crimson Nape
Apnea Board Moderator
www.ApneaBoard.com
___________________________________
Useful Links -or- When All Else Fails:
The Guide to Understanding OSCAR
OSCAR Chart Organization
Attaching Images and Files on Apnea Board
Apnea Helpful Tips

INFORMATION ON APNEA BOARD FORUMS OR ON APNEABOARD.COM SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AS MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN BEFORE SEEKING TREATMENT FOR MEDICAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. INFORMATION POSTED ON THE APNEA BOARD WEB SITE AND FORUMS ARE PERSONAL OPINION ONLY AND NOT NECESSARILY A STATEMENT OF FACT.
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#3
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
(01-02-2015, 02:50 PM)sgearhart Wrote: Yes, I use the 2 together. I went from a full face mask to nasal pillows and a chinstrap. My AHI went from a 6.83 to 2.31 overnight. I've tried 2 different styles of chinstraps; one that resembled a small Velcro belt and the other I refer to as the Hannibal Lector model. The manufacturer calls it a "Ruby chinstrap". I know that they are sold at suppliers #1 and 26 but probably everyone sells them. The "HL" model stays put easier and will conform to your facial features over time making it very comfortable. The belt version kept slipping off. I've found that the chinstrap helps develop muscle memory and I can leave it off for several days without any problems.

Remember, what works for one person may not for another.

Good Luck!

Thanks sgearhart!

Two questions:
What is AHI?
Which should go on first, the chin strap or the nasal pillows?
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#4
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
Hi novatom,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
I use a makeshift chinstrap because I had trouble with most of them.
I took the AirFit P 10 headgear, adjusted it to my head and sewed it together to make a very minimalist chinstrap but you might require a chinstrap that covers a larger area of your head, it's trial and error and an individual think, much like masks are. What will work for me, may, or may not work for you.
Hang in there for more suggestions and much success to you with your CPAP therapy.
trish6hundred
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#5
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
(01-02-2015, 02:55 PM)novatom Wrote: Two questions:
What is AHI?
Which should go on first, the chin strap or the nasal pillows?

1. AHI = Apnea-Hypopnea Index - Basically a ratio of sleep apneas/events compared to the length of time you're asleep.

2. Each chinstrap has its recommended order of donning. The belt version was to be used after putting on your mask. The headgear version recommends to be donned prior to the face mask. I just came across a post that has one user, with mask stability problems, putting it on after the mask to tie down the mask headstraps.
Crimson Nape
Apnea Board Moderator
www.ApneaBoard.com
___________________________________
Useful Links -or- When All Else Fails:
The Guide to Understanding OSCAR
OSCAR Chart Organization
Attaching Images and Files on Apnea Board
Apnea Helpful Tips

INFORMATION ON APNEA BOARD FORUMS OR ON APNEABOARD.COM SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AS MEDICAL ADVICE. ALWAYS SEEK THE ADVICE OF A PHYSICIAN BEFORE SEEKING TREATMENT FOR MEDICAL CONDITIONS, INCLUDING SLEEP APNEA. INFORMATION POSTED ON THE APNEA BOARD WEB SITE AND FORUMS ARE PERSONAL OPINION ONLY AND NOT NECESSARILY A STATEMENT OF FACT.
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#6
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
It was worthless for me. I have, apparently, a very round head. The thing wouldn't stay put no matter how I donned it--I'd feel it sliding even as I laid down.

It was recommended that I try that self-adhesive "Ace"-type bandage, so I got some; however, I must have trained myself to sleep with my mouth shut already, as it's still unopened and I haven't awakened with a dry mouth since I bought it. (Go figure.)

Lamb
To all, to each, a fair good-night,
And pleasing dreams, and slumbers light.
       Scott—Marmion. L’Envoy. To the Reader.

Diagnosed with OSA in 2014
AHI=18
Lowest SpO2: 79%
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#7
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
One of the best stay put chin straps ive tried is the Respironics Premium chin strap. Once on it stays put plus lifts the chin up instead of up and back. Its wide with a strap behind the head but it will keep the mouth closed and stay in place.

I still have it to use on stuffy nights when I know Ill open my mouth in my sleep. Otherwise I can get by without it.

As to a FFM if the nasal route fails try the F&P Simplus. Very easy on the nose no pressure points, seals well with a loose fit. Most comfortable FFM Ive had. Still have one as a back up to the Eson if I have a really bad cold or something.
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#8
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
Before I quit on the nasal pillows, they were quite good at reducing leaks and dry mouth.
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#9
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
very.
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#10
RE: Chin straps- how effective are they?
For me they are vital, I need the chin straps for any cpap ffm, nasal mask or nasal pillow to be useful at all.
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