new machine/phlegm in throat/FFMs

[pollyottis]

I have a Respironics "brick" as someone here termed it.  Using a Tap Pap nasal pillow mask and taping my mouth, I had actually gotten pretty comfortable using it all night and felt pretty good in mornings.  But I was determined to get an auto machine so purchased a ResMed Autosense 10 for Her ($883 OOP!).  I can't seem to get things figured out w this machine.  For several nights I used it w the Tap Pap, but would take it off (the ResMed) and put the Respironics back on in the night.... (should have made notes those mornings...).  Then I saw the dentist who says the Tap Pap is going to make my dicey bite and teeth issues much worse, so I went back to a Brevida I had tried.  No dice.  I felt so awful I went back to the Tap Pap, but last night took it off after 4 hrs bc of so much phlegm in throat.  I feel like holy ________ today.  Realize I felt like this for literally years. So hard to figure out what to do while exhausted.  

Those of you who use FFMs - are your mouths open w mask on? 

I did start ResMed scan and sleepyhead.  Both look bad as far as I can tell, but seriously - too complicated to figure out....TIA!

[Gideon]

I used to feel (past tense) that every CPAP user should have a FFM (Full Face Mask) for use when sick and clogged up.  I seemed logical.  Now I believe that unless you are an incorrigible mouthbreather the nasal/pillow mask will just power thru the crap and be better than a FFM.

BUT some find a FFM is just better for them and use them exclusively.  Remember the BEST mask is the one that works for you.

Fred

[pollyottis]

My question is whether the mouth is open w a FFM.  Air in mouth/on teeth all night like that is terrible for teeth.. I already have issues going on... this is just f-------- overwhelming...

[paulag1955]

No, you would want your mouth closed. Air that's escaping out your mouth isn't helping control events.

[HalfAsleep]

The phlegm may be from too much humidity. Make it manual instead of auto and decrease it by a digit until the situation corrects itself. Also, play with the hose temperature. Maybe it’s too warm for you. I developed a death rattle and lost my voice before I figured this out.

The mask might not be a factor in this situation. Humidity adjustments are needed to get it right no matter the mask.

[Walla Walla]

Is the mouth open with a FFM? Yeah it can be. Some people use a chin strap or soft cervical collar to keep the jaw from dropping open with a FFM.

The problem with a FFM and the jaw opening isn't mouth breathing. It's the mask breaking the seal at the bottom.