How can I make my treatment more effective?

[Neighborgeek]

I finally got a collar that fits well, and allows me to leave it a little loose around my neck but still prevents me from lowering my chin.  I've had it for about 10 days now, and my AHI has definitely improved.  For reference, the collar I ended up with is the "Velpeau Neck Brace- Cervical Collar - Soft Neck Support Relieves Pain & Pressure in Spine - Wraps Aligns Stabilizes Vertebrae - Can Be Used During Sleep（Stabilized Version L9-3.5”)", purchased from amazon.  I wonder if the collar would also take the place of a chin strap to prevent mouth breathing?  Maybe I'll switch back to nasal pillows sometime and give it a try. 

I need to try to adjust my mask somehow though, as lately I've woken up in the night with it pressing up against the underside of my nose way to hard, to the point that I take it off and my nose aches for some time after.  I'm not sure how to adjust for that, as the Dreamwear (full face) only has the 2 straps around the back of the head that can be adjusted, the frame going up to the top is solid.  

I do feel like I've been a little more rested when waking up lately, though I'm still severely lacking motivation to actually get up and do anything.  That could very well be a mental health issue though more than a sleep issue.  I'll have to take that up with the Dr at my next appt.  

Here are a couple of screenshots of my data, a daily view from last night and an overview which clearly shows an improvement with the collar.  You can see that there was an improvement beginning on the 14th when I adjusted my settings based on SleepRider's suggestions, and then another after I started wearing the collar on the 16th.  

   
   

Thanks!
NeighborGeek

[Sleeprider]

Soft cervical collars apply pressure to the jaw and have been very effective in reducing mouth leaks for some members. I would really like to see you review the Velpeau Neck Brace- Cervical Collar in the Reviews forum when you get a chance and more experience with it. So many members can benefit from your experience and insights on what worked and what didn't.

[sheepless]

I use a nasal pillow mask and I'm prone to lip leaks. can't do the tongue suck technique, can't tape over whiskers, no luck with chin strap. the collar's about the only option left. it's not perfect, more like an 80% solution, but absolutely necessary for me to minimize leaks & avoid oa clusters. definitely worth a try.