High leak rate

[k_ogre]

ok I've got a high leak rate (26) and I use a P10 pillows. what I figured out is if I inhale with my mouth air goes up the nose then out the mouth. I've started to use a chin strap and got it down to about 20 any other ideas?

[truetopath]

I had a problem with nasal pillows popping my mouth open, and I couldn't get comfortable with a chin strap. Have you tried a boil and bite mouthguard? One of the ones that imprints your top and bottom teeth and has breathing holes on the front you can plug. Best of luck!

[retired_guy]

The chinstrap is the right idea. It just takes a little implementation. First, don't cinch it up tightly. That just causes problems. Apply it gently and work with it to see it "encourage" your jaw to come forward. The idea is not to keep your mouth shut but rather make your body happier with the jaw forward than it is with it dropping back towards your adam's apple. When the jaw is forward, the natural place for your tongue to hang out is on the roof of your mouth, thus making a nice, airtight seal.

Just practice with it. It's an art-form, not a science.

[Nyre]

With my last sleep study I also had a High Leak rate they tried 2 different Chin Straps which both proved to be unsuccessful and finally they used a Full Face Mask which Helped out with my mouth breathing but I was initially uncomfortable with it and didn't sleep well. But Over time I am sure I will get used to it and my sleep will get better once I start my Therapy.

[PaulaO2]

Actually, a leak rate of 26 is not that bad.

Look at the leak graph. If it is flat topped kinda sorta, it *may* be mouth breathing. If it is jagged, it is mask leaking like it came loose.

[Nyre]

Actually, a leak rate of 26 is not that bad.

Look at the leak graph. If it is flat topped kinda sorta, it *may* be mouth breathing. If it is jagged, it is mask leaking like it came loose.

Thank You Paula for this useful information. Knowing how to read sleepyhead is very useful