Sleep Apnea Masks

There are many considerations as to which Sleep Apnea Masks are best and what the differences are.

 CPAP or ‘Continuous Positive Airway Pressure’ is the most effective method for treating sleep apnea. A CPAP machine is hooked up to the apnea sufferer via a tube or hose leading into a mask worn on the face. Most masks will work with most of the CPAP machines, as the hosing is standard. The masks do vary though, and you will find some will suit your needs better than others.

The most important point to consider when choosing a mask is the comfort of the mask. Depending on what position you sleep in, how you tend to fall asleep, and what fits your face better, your decision in terms of a mask can seriously affect your ability to continue with CPAP therapy. If the mask is comfortable and fits properly, it is easier to keep it on and continue with the therapy.

Most CPAP masks are triangular in shape and are worn over the nose, with adjustable straps to hold the mask in place. The headgear straps must be snug enough to hold the mask on throughout the night, but they should not be so tight as to be uncomfortable. It is important that the mask fits the shape of your face well, as the seal must be maintained in order to maintain the air pressure. Quick-release clips on some models make it easier to remove the mask.

Nasal Masks

The Respironics ComfortClassic is a basic mask available in two sizes. Featuring a two-in-one gel spacer for better adjustment, this mask has several comfort improvements. A 360 degree swivel allows the tubing to move more freely, and a new cushion profile at the bridge of the nose reduces pressure to the area. The bottom part of the cushion is thicker for added comfort. As with most sleep apnea masks, there is a strap at the top of the mask that goes around the forehead, and one lower down that goes round the back of the head. This model has a rigid adapter on the top strap and bottom straps that rest below the ear for a more comfortable and secure fit.

The Comfort Series from Respironics includes the ComfortSelect Nasal Mask, which has a dual-layer cushion and an adjustable forehead spacer for a comfortable fit. This model has four ‘Quick Clips’ for easy removal.

The ComfortGel Nasal Mask combines a customisable blue gel mask that can be molded to fit your facial contours to provide superior sealing and comfort.  The dual-layer cushion gives a secure and an extra-comfortable fit. Removable forehead pads adjust to the angle of your forehead, and a replaceable silicone ‘Comfort Flap’ improves the sealing in this mask.

The Respironics Profile Lite is a smaller nose mask with a lighter gel cushion and forehead pad for those who find normal masks heavy.

The Respironics Simplicity Nasal Mask has a small, lightweight cushion that sits at the tip of the nose, instead of covering the entire nose. This takes pressure off the bridge of the nose, and is ideal for those who wear eyeglasses and like to read until they fall asleep. It is also easier to watch television with this mask, and they are preferred by men with facial hair.

DeVilbiss make a range of Nasal Masks that includes the Flex Set Masl, combining improved silicone technology with an adjustable frame to maximize comfort. A dual-pivoting forehead rest, mask bridge and soft ‘breathoprene’ pads make this a comfortable and secure mask that is easy to use.

Their Serenity Mask has an adjustable forehead rest with a soft, latex-free cushion and pads. The headgear is soft and comfortable – and It’s labelled for easy assembly.

The Aclaim 2, by Fisher & Paykel, offers greater comfort, less noise and adjustment free fit and removal. New FlexiFit cushion technology makes the mask more comfortable, and a unique glider mechanism allows more freedom of movement. The FlexiFit cushion automatically conforms to different nose bridges, so there’s no mechanical adjustment needed.

Also by Fisher & Paykel, the HC405 features the FlexiFit technology and adjustable forehead glider of the Aclaim 2, but with a one-step put-on and take-off feature that makes these masks very popular. The HC 407 is similar, but with the addition of new ‘Stretchgear’ headgear that maximizes flexibility, minimizes pressure on the face, and will stay secure all night.

The Zest nasal mask, also by Fisher & Paykel, is small, quiet and easy to use, combining the EasyClip Silicone Seal and Advanced Air Diffuser technology that makes these masks a popular choice with many users. A hidden strap release and glider clip make this mask easy to remove.

Resmed produce a variety of options as well. The Mirage Active is specifically designed for those who move around a lot when they sleep. ActiveCell Technology automatically adapts to changes in position, allowing the mask frame to move independently of the cushion while maintaining the seal. The Mirage Active has adjustable forehead support with four position options, flexible forehead pads and cushion technology to provide an excellent seal without headgear that is too tight. All these features add up to exceptional comfort and security.

The Mirage Vista from Resmed has a streamlined design perfect for those who like to read themselves to sleep. A new headgear design that is pre-assembled and easy to adjust stays on, and because it is made from ‘Breathe-o-Prene’, it draws moisture away from the skin, and allows air to circulate. This is particularly useful for users with sensitive skin. This new design has straps running from the mask around the face, with a back section that supports two straps running up to the crown. This is a more stable design, and the absence of a forehead strap is appreciated by some users. The unique FitAngle Selector allows for precise adjustment, with five symmetrical positions and twenty asymmetrical positions. With all these additional features, all geared to make this mask comfortable to wear, you’ll have no more excuses.

A full face sleep apnea mask is recommended for mouth breathers to prevent the air pressure leaking through the mouth.

Fisher & Paykel manufacture the HC431 and the HC432. The HC431 FlexiFit Full Face mask has a highly contoured silicone seal for comfort and efficiency. The under chin design gives all night stability, and the glider strap of the Aclaim 2 remains a feature of this mask too. The HC432 is an update on the HC431, and has an additional foam insert under the chin.

The Resmed Ultra Mirage Full Face mask provides all the features of the Ultra Mirage Nasal mask, including the MicroFit dial for precise adjustment to the mask, four cushion sizes, and adjustable forehead support. A quick release swivel allows for easy tube removal, and quick release clips make removing the headgear equally easy. These features make for a stable and comfortable full face mask.

The Resmed Mirage Quattro incorporates the Mirage dual-layer cushion with spring air technology to accommodate movement during sleep. With a MicroFit Dial for the forehead support adjustment, and cushions in four sizes, this is a good mask for active sleepers.

The Resmed Mirage Liberty face mask has an unobtrusive design that offers a free field of vision with all the benefits of dual-wall Mirage cushion technology. This mask comes with 3 pillow sizes to fit most faces.

Respironics have revolutionized comfort in full face masks with their Total Face Mask. Air pressure from the system inflates the soft, flexible sealing area, minimising leaks without sacrificing comfort. The clear, lightweight faceplate does not obstruct vision. Special safety features make the Total Face Mask a cut above other masks – an entrainment valve allows the patient to breathe room air in case of a power failure, and a quick release cord enables fast and easy removal.

A new alternative to the mask is a nasal pillow. This consists of two small flexible pieces inserted into the nostrils, attached to a plastic adaptor and then to the CPAP machine tubing. The pillows can also be inserted into headgear to improve stability. The pillows do not rest on the nose, cheeks, or lips, so comfort is improved and allergic reaction to the materials is lessened. Nasal pillows are often preferred by men with facial hair, but can be uncomfortable for users who need a higher air pressure.

Resmed makes one of the lightest nasal pillows on the market, the Mirage Swift II which weighs only 2.5 ounce. With four interchangeable tube positions, three pillow sizes and the Mirage Comfort technology , this is a popular nasal pillow system, Further improvements make the Mirage Swift LT an even better choice, with the addition of 360 degree air tube  adjustability giving users more options in terms of sleeping positions, and stability has been improved with soft new headgear.

The Fisher & Paykel HC481 Infinity includes a ‘Ball and Socket’ elbow that allows superior freedom of movement. The silicone nasal prongs are anatomically shaped for extra comfort and a superb seal.

Their HC482 Opus is small and lightweight with a light, comfortable headgear. The tubing can be directed above the head or along the side, suitable for users who prefer to sleep on their side.

Tiara has created an innovative system called SNAPP – Soft Nasal Accessory for Positive Pressure. The cushion bellows expand and compress with the user’s breathing while still maintaining a strong seal. The Nasal Prong design follows the facial contours below the nares for efficient sealing of the inner and outer rim of the nose. Special 360 degree swivel elbows allow the cushion to self-adjust. This helps the soreness that some users experience when only the inner rim is sealed. The unique ‘Butterfly’ headgear  has fewer straps, and can be worn so that the tubing goes over the user’s chest or above their head.

The Respironics Comfort Lite II has a unique headgear, featuring only one strap at the back of the head that then splits into two, one going over the forehead, and the other at the top of the head. This design minimizes pressure points and contact on the face. The Comfort Lite II comes with two nasal interface options – the pillow-like Direct Seal cushion that offers a comfortable seal without any insertion intot he nostrils, or the Simple Cushion with a small, tip of the nose interface.

The Respironics OptiLife Nasal Pillow Mask is designed for easier use, with headgear that has a chin support band that allows it to be taken on off with just one hand. Better for side sleepers, this is an ideal mask for users new to CPAP therapy.

The Bravo! From Teleflex Medical is unique in its multiple options for headgear positions. This allows the user to choose the best headgear position for optimal comfort in their usual sleeping position. No nasal bridge or forehead contact means you can wear eye glasses, and it reduces pressure and possible discomfort. Three sizes of nasal pillows allow you to choose the best fit, and the pillows are mix and match, so you can use different sizes on each nostril if needed, Tubing can run over the chest or above the head depending on your preferred sleeping position.

Innomed manufacture the Nasal Aire II Prong, with a sleek design that allows the user the freedom to speak, eat, drink and wear eyeglasses without removing the device. Improvements on the Nasal Aire original version include a softer nasal prong area and a redesigned prong shape for more comfort. The user can sleep in any position, and a built-in swivel makes it easy to remove.