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+--- Thread: nasal mask vs nose pillows (/Thread-nasal-mask-vs-nose-pillows)
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nasal mask vs nose pillows - k_ogre - 03-12-2015
What are the UPS and downs to each?
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - GeoffD - 03-12-2015
I started with a Wisp nasal mask. ResMed Airfit P10 nasal pillow advocates here convinced me to try those after a couple of months. For me, there is no down side to them. With the mask, it would be fine when I put it on but as I deposited skin oils on it during the night, it started leaking. I wear reading glasses and any nasal mask will be a problem for that. I get a better fit. I sleep more. I don't get leaks. It's far more unobtrusive. I'll never wear a nasal mask again.
Your mileage may vary, of course
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - OpalRose - 03-12-2015
(03-12-2015, 03:26 AM)k_ogre Wrote: What are the UPS and downs to each?
Hi k_ogre,
I only tried a nasal mask during my two sleep studies, and that was enough to turn me away from them forever. They hurt the bridge of my nose, left terrible red marks and I ended up with a headache.
I have used a Nasal pillow mask now for almost 5 months, and although not perfect, it is the least intrusive mask to wear. Once you find the nasal pillow fit that is right for you, I don't see too many down sides.
OpalRose
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - truetopath - 03-12-2015
I've tried both the nasal mask and nasal pillows. While the nasal pillows were very light and comfortable the direct airflow would pop my mouth open during the night. With a nasal mask I never have mouth leaks, and to me they are just as comfortable as pillows once you get used to them.
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - trish6hundred - 03-12-2015
Hi k_ogre,
WELCOME! to the forum.!
Masks are such an individual thing. What I might like, you might not like, it's trial and error.
Some of us have had to try many different masks 'till we found the one that really works.
I like the P10 nasal pillows mask because it is very light and minimalist, but you might need something different.
Hang in there for more responses to your post and much success to you as you continue your CPAP therapy.
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - H2Daddy - 03-12-2015
I agree with truetopath. I tried a couple of nasal pillow masks (P10 and Nuance). Neither worked out well. They were great if I slept on my back; horrible when I slept on my side. I'm using the Wisp now and it seems to be working out great. But, like they say, YMMV!
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - PaulaO2 - 03-12-2015
I couldn't use nasal masks because of my weird nose. They all leaked into my eyes. So I had to use nasal pillows. Since I didn't mouth breathe, it was silly not to use anything else.
But then about a year ago, I started lip leaking. No idea why. I tried two chin different chin straps and while one worked well, I hated it. It crossed the line for me in terms of tolerance for this "every dang night" thing. So I switched to a full face mask. Because they are bigger, I can pull it down lower and not have the leak at the top of my nose. Even then, I still have a problem with leaks there but most nights, they are minimal.
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - Visitor - 03-14-2015
I tried both.
I got skin irritation with the nasal mask (which can be resolved by using a cream).
I prefer the nasal pillows. I feel free with them.
Headgear is very important though, you want to be able to finely adjust to ensure there are no leaks. I love the P10 mask. Don't like the headgear (too basic). You can get around it by making your own adjustments (extra straps) if needed.
I have to wear a chin strap with the nasal pillows. It's a bit of a pain, but on the other hand, with the P10, I can make it work like an extra piece of headgear to adjust matters.
I don't recall whether I needed a chin strap with the nasal mask. I don't see why there should be a difference between the two regarding mouth leaks (as neither covers the mouth). But perhaps there is (noticed another poster upstream commented it made a difference).
Best of luck, as stated: this is very personal, depends on the shape of your face, and minor differences can have a big effect. Getting it right is crucial and never give up improving on what works best for you till you feel you've got it right (wake up refreshed).
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - Alfreda - 03-22-2015
I tried the P10 but have trouble getting enough air. I feel like I have to force both inhale and exhale. I love the head gear compared to the nasal masks and I would love the pillows to work but I end up taking the mask off after a few hours of feeling like I am suffocating.
RE: nasal mask vs nose pillows - PaulaO2 - 03-22-2015
If you try the pillows again, increase the EPR on the machine. The P10 with its diffuser can make breathing out difficult for some people. Increasing the EPR (exhale relief), it helps with this a lot.
Another is if you have the ramp on, turn it off. This will help as well.