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+--- Thread: have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? (/Thread-have-you-been-able-to-effectively-use-nasal-mask-without-mouth-taping-or-chin-strap)
have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? - theredheadsaid - 08-18-2022
I want to switch to a nasal mask (vs full face) for various reasons. I can breathe through my nose during the day so I know I can do it at night. I have tried mouth taping but I wake up with an irritated throat (and I realized yesterday it's the same feeling as when I have to wear a COVID mask all day and have to talk to people). So I'm trying without. I feel like I'm improving (going longer without my mouth "popping") I guess I'd just like to hear from others that they are able to sleep with nasal, without mouth taping or chin strap. I'm thinking it's just something I have to get used to, keeping my tongue int he right place.
RE: have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? - upsman - 08-18-2022
I guess I've been one of the lucky ones and can successfully breathe through my nose only. I've been using either nasal pillows or a nasal mask of some description for years.
There is an exercise you can practice and it may help in keeping your mouth closed while sleeping.
https://www.soundsleepmedical.com/blog/exercises-to-help-obstructive-sleep-apnea/#:~:text=Tongue%20Push%20Up%3A%20Push%20your,seconds%20and%20repeat%205%20times.
RE: have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? - TheDuke - 08-18-2022
I can rest without a chin strap, but I do prefer the added security of being assured. So I do use a chin strap.
RE: have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? - dwd1249 - 08-18-2022
I'm with upsman never taped or strapped. Always used a nasal mask, currently pillows.
RE: have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? - Liteheart1 - 08-18-2022
I am actually exploring going from nasal pillows to FFM. Been in therapy for 2.5 years and early on had significant mouth breathing and leaks. Seemingly from Oscar data I had trained myself (see post above and in this forums wiki under "mask leaks" there is a different description and tongue exercise), BUT in last 5 months probably related to increased stress it seems I am again mouth breathing. Thus while I have mostly tamed this with mouth taping (I find cervical collar or chin strap too confining), I am going to explore FFM. In addition to mouth taping I am paying a lot of attention to head position on pillow (far off to one side, and slightly tilted upward); I'm mostly a side sleeper and usually only one side per night = so not an active sleeper. I am hoping that FFM might offer good alternative and not require so much self observation and positioning. I do expect that if I move to FFM I will miss the simplicity and light weight of nasal pillows. Good luck with your transition.
RE: have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? - Expat31 - 08-19-2022
I had similar problems to you, but with pretty violent coughing.Thought it was my 5 cms tape.
In the end I found out that vital to clean the air intake filter once a week, with a couple of flicks with your fingers to get rid of any dust.
Long story short, I have a dreamware pillows mask, and use Micropore or CoverRoll tape. Works well and mask silent. perfect
I can't tolerate a full face mask, noisy with the rush of air, difficult to control leaks, and mask seal uncomfortable. (I have tried Resmed and Phillips - just no good for me).
RE: have you been able to effectively use nasal mask without mouth taping or chin strap? - Ockrocket - 08-19-2022
I used to be able to use a nose mask successfully, but over time I started to occasionally find my mouth had been open for a period during the night.
I put it down to becoming subconsciously more relaxed with using a CPAP over time, so in the end I switched to a full face mask.
In the end it isn't a big issue, with being asleep all that matters is what works effectively for treatment.