CPAP Nasal Masks For Comfort And Effective Therapy

CPAP Nasal Masks are becoming increasingly popular amongst people who do not like the restrictive feel of a full face CPAP mask. This article will help you discover this excellent upgrade to your cpap therapy and get the best from nasal cpap.

What Are CPAP Nasal Masks?

CPAP nasal masks are a type of mask that create a seal around the nose of the user. They are generally triangular in shape, A 4 point head harness hold them in place. One thing that a lot of cpap (continuous positive airway pressure) users hate is the restrictive and slightly claustrophobic feeling that a full face mask produces when it seals around the mouth. CPAP nasal masks do not do this. The seal is purely around the nose, allowing air to circulate freely around the mouth area.

There are a number of different styles and the materials used are silicon and gel styles. The gel style nasal mask, or the silicon billows style nasal mask is the preferred option among many users. One important thing to remember is that there is a world of difference between the cheap nasal masks and their slightly more expensive counterparts. You really will notice that the comfort levels in the more expensive units is head and shoulders above the low-cost designs.

Why Might A CPAP Nasal Mask Suit Me Better?

If you have been using cpap for some time, or are a recently diagnosed cpap patient, you will be aware from conversations with your health care provider that 'the best cpap mask is the one that you are unaware of when it's on your face'. This is true, you shouldn't have a noticeable sensation of the mask, wearing it for hours every night will certainly try your patience if it is obvious and uncomfortable.

Minimalist cpap nasal masks are really the ideal solution, and for those of you that are nose breathers, nasal cpap masks provide an excellent choice. If you are looking for a really comfortable nasal cpap mask, the 'nasal cushion' can offer a lightweight gel design. It creates a really good seal around your nose. Gel is an excellent material and the comfort level is high. Expect to see some sort of forehead support on most nasal masks, which adds stability.

Will CPAP Nasal Masks Work On My CPAP Machine?

Yes, they simply attach to the cpap hose. Most masks use common fittings so there should be not problems with interchanging between nasal masks and full face masks on most cpap machines. Importantly however, if you are thinking of converting from a full face mask to a nasal pillow or mask, you should consult with your doctor to make sure that it will work for you.

Two More Types Of Nasal CPAP Masks

The CPAP Nasal Prong

CPAP nasal prongs deliver air directly into your nostrils. They seal the nostrils  and are a much smaller device than the nasal mask shown above. Generally utilising headgear that is worn on the crown of the head, they are very comfortable for most users. Some people do have slight irritation of the outer nostril area. As with any change in equipment, it is important to have a backup mask to use if you experience discomfort with the trial one.

These types of cpap nasal masks actually fit quite deep into the nostrils and they inflate a little to provide that airtight seal. Nasal pillows on the other hand, sit against the opening of the nostril to create that seal.

CPAP Nasal Pillow

CPAP nasal pillows are one of the most popular of the cpap nasal masks, and use a soft gel or silicone pillow which sits just under the nares of the nostrils to provide the all important seal.  Since their development and introduction onto the cpap therapy market, many sleep apnea sufferers have switched over to this type of product. Again, as with the nasal prongs, some users do suffer from irritation of the nostrils.

If you hate the feeling of a full face mask, cpap nasal pillow masks might be the solution, They provide one of the most minimal contact areas with the face. Less adjustment, full line of sight vision, plenty of size options, make the cpap nasal pillow a good and effective cpap device.

Where To Buy CPAP Nasal Masks

If you live near a major out of down business park, you may be able to buy nasal masks from a large pharmacy, usually in the health and personal care section. There are plenty of online cpap retailers that can offer great information and a variety of products to suit your needs.

One of the best places to buy, especially if you are considering a multi-buy, is Amazon. They offer all the top cpap supplies, brands and models like the comfort gel nasal cpap mask, with free shipping on many cpap product lines.

One popular model is the Respironics Optilife C-pap Nasal Mask Kit with Headgear, retailing for around $50. It has a good number of customer reviews, and the comments are generally very positive. Amazon are also offering a deal where you buy the mask, a length of Respironics cpap tubing, and a CozyHoze cpap or bipap hose cover together, for only $70.

This bulk buying can be a very effective way of shopping. CPAP hoses are prone to perishing after a year or so of use, so it makes sense to save money when you buy these items together.

We hope this overview on the alternatives to cpap full face masks has helped. You may be using cpap therapy for many years, and one of the best ways to be comfortable is by upgrading to one of these cpap nasal masks.