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Unexpected side effect...
#1
Unexpected side effect...
So, I have recently started therapy, and have run into a side effect that was not expected, nor wanted. I use the Quattro FX mask. I'm waking up in the mornings with my nose and 2 spots on my forehead red and irritated. Within 24 hours, the affected areas explode with pimples/whiteheads, and it takes 3-4 days of NOT using the mask to heal/clear up.

I wash my face before bed, I've even tried using astringent alcohol wipes. Its not working. Anyone else seen this happen? If so, how did you deal with it? Its to the point that I'd rather be exhausted and tired than have my face looking like it does for a week at a time.
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#2
RE: Unexpected side effect...
It sounds like you might be cranking down on the straps a little too much. The mask is supposed to be comfortably snug when inflated, not pushy.

You could try a different style mask. Either a nasal mask or a pillows mask. I'd suggest the pillows mask even though you may feel like that can't work for you. I'm the poster child for "that can't work, but does far better than I could have imagined."

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#3
RE: Unexpected side effect...
retired_guy, I would agree with you 100% that the mask is tight, but my pressure is so high that if I don't go real tight, it leaks like a sieve. However, why would a tight mask cause pimples/whiteheads?
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#4
RE: Unexpected side effect...
.....and I forgot...

Also you could try a mask "liner." That's a simple piece of cotton that lines the rim of the mask. You can make one from your kids favorite t-shirt. Just cut out a section in the back a little larger than the mask outline, and cut the center out where Mr. Nosie goes.

Likely, the kid won't even notice........
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#5
RE: Unexpected side effect...
(08-06-2014, 12:09 PM)Droosk Wrote: retired_guy, I would agree with you 100% that the mask is tight, but my pressure is so high that if I don't go real tight, it leaks like a sieve. However, why would a tight mask cause pimples/whiteheads?

It sounds like pressure points causing the issue. But how about let's get into the basics a little: How high is high? What is your AHI? What is your leak rate?

That kind of stuff.

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#6
RE: Unexpected side effect...
(08-06-2014, 12:02 PM)Droosk Wrote: So, I have recently started therapy, and have run into a side effect that was not expected, nor wanted. I use the Quattro FX mask. I'm waking up in the mornings with my nose and 2 spots on my forehead red and irritated. Within 24 hours, the affected areas explode with pimples/whiteheads, and it takes 3-4 days of NOT using the mask to heal/clear up.

I wash my face before bed, I've even tried using astringent alcohol wipes. Its not working. Anyone else seen this happen? If so, how did you deal with it? Its to the point that I'd rather be exhausted and tired than have my face looking like it does for a week at a time.

Tell you DME provider that the Quattro isn't working out and you want to try a Nasal Pillow Mask. The only contact point is the underside of your nose.

Most DMEs have some sort of policy that allows replacing masks that aren't working out. It usually takes 2 or 3 or 5 or more to find one that works really well for you.

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#7
RE: Unexpected side effect...
I had the same problem with the mirage quatro. I now have the f&p simplus with a liner and do not have the problem. I have rosecea and the quatro material seemed to iritate my skin. The pimples were gastly.
2010 sleep study 63 AHI
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#8
Unexpected side effect...
Why do you have a full face mask (FFM)? In my opinion, FFM's should only be a last resort or for those who can't breathe through the nose, or those who can't stop mouth leaks with a nasal mask.

Your mask disassembles. Take it apart and clean the living heck out of the "pimple" points on the mask. ResMed says no, but you can put the clear rubbery silicone parts in the dishwasher. If not that, you can use alcohol on the silicone a few times, even though you might not want to use alcohol too frequently.

It's possible that there's some sort of residue from the manufacturing process on or in the silicone.
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#9
RE: Unexpected side effect...
Droosk, if you're getting warm at all, you'll sweat at the contact points with the mask....if you have oily skin, it can lead to pimples. If a good cleaning isn't helping, it may be worthwhile to try a different style of mask.

If you've got the mask cranked right down to your face, you could be brewing pressure sores...if the mask leaks like a sieve otherwise, I think it isn't the mask for you. I'd have a chat with your provider about a different mask or mask style.

archangle, we're going to disagree Wink I think ffm's are a viable choice for anyone. I know a lot of folks and DMEs subscribe to the minimalist approach, but in order to get compliance, you need to go with what works. I can use pillows and nasal masks (I don't have issues with keeping my mouth shut), but prefer a ffm or tfm because they are generally better anchored for someone like me who prefers side and tummy sleeping to sleeping on my back. My best treatment numbers (AHI and leaks), comfort and best feeling during the day comes from a TFM, so that's what I use.
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#10
RE: Unexpected side effect...
Mask fit is so individual, one should always be cautious when advising someone what type of mask to use. I can share with others what I do to make my mask work for me - it isn't helpful for me to tell someone what type of mask I think they should use.
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