Hello,

Im new to all this and Im having a problem that I would like to know if anyone else has had and how they dealt with it.  I have a BiPAP Auto M Series Heated Humidifier machine from Respironics.  Im not sure what my mask is, all I know is that it covers my nose and mouth and it has a comfort gauge that rests on my forehead.  I must say this is the toughest thing I have had to do in a very long time.  I just can't go to sleep with the mask on my face.  I put it on, lay back and immediately imagine one of those Alien babies (from the movie) and rip it off my face.  My doctor has prescribed a sleeping aid, but I just get drowsy and panic all night long.  Is this normal?  I trully hope it is. My doctor has mentioned another mask that just goes into the nostrils.  It's not a mini mask that covers the nose.  It's a modified version of the tubes they put in patients noses while in the hospital. I hope I have described it correctly.  Has anyone ever used something like that? I want to try it, but Im afraid that Im setting myself up for another "Alien baby"...

from your description of your mask I'd have to say its the ResMed Mirage Quattro. How do I know this, because you said it goes over your nose and mouth and it has the Miro fit dial thats on the forehead. Well thats the Mirage Quattro. It should say ResMed on the bridge and have a green ring around the cushion.

Ok other masks You should talk to your Clinician that set you up with your cpap. ALL mask have a 30day guaranteed fit. There are other masks out there. Don't be afraid to tell them you don't like it. I had 4 different mask before i found the one that was right for me.

I personal us the ResMed Swift LT for her. Here is a link to all the ResMed masks http://www.resmed.com/us/products/masks.html?nc=patients

Thank you!  I have a mask consultation tomorrow.  Hope it works out for me.

Strmy wrote:

Hello,

Im new to all this and Im having a problem that I would like to know if anyone else has had and how they dealt with it.  I have a BiPAP Auto M Series Heated Humidifier machine from Respironics.  Im not sure what my mask is, all I know is that it covers my nose and mouth and it has a comfort gauge that rests on my forehead.  I must say this is the toughest thing I have had to do in a very long time.  I just can't go to sleep with the mask on my face.  I put it on, lay back and immediately imagine one of those Alien babies (from the movie) and rip it off my face.  My doctor has prescribed a sleeping aid, but I just get drowsy and panic all night long.  Is this normal?  I trully hope it is. My doctor has mentioned another mask that just goes into the nostrils.  It's not a mini mask that covers the nose.  It's a modified version of the tubes they put in patients noses while in the hospital. I hope I have described it correctly.  Has anyone ever used something like that? I want to try it, but Im afraid that Im setting myself up for another "Alien baby"...

I know exactly where you are coming from.  Your "Alien baby" was my water boarding.  They put that full mask on me and I felt as though I was being water boarded.  It was very difficult to breathe.  I got the same, panicky feeling you are describing and ripped it off immediately.

My solution has been what your doctor describes as the mask that "just goes into the nostrils."  If you have been diagnosed with severe sleep apnea, this may not be appropriate for you but if you are something less than severe, I think they will say it's OK to use it.

The mask you are talking about is called "nasal pillows."  All it involves is a soft, plastic device that sits on your upper lip, with two extensions that fit just inside of your nostrils, plus a strap arrangement to hold it in place.  Put the device on, crank up your unit and you're ready to go.  You do not feel confined.  No panicky feeling.

Nasal pillows are to full nasal masks what a CT scan is to an MRI.  You really should check it out.

Hi!

I did check it out.  I went to a "mask expert" and she and I went through about ten different masks.  I ended up choosing a Hybrid with nasal pillows.  It was the best fit that didnt freak me out.  The "pillows" fit snug in my nostrils and a "cup" like piece fits over my mouth and under my chin.  Hopefully this one will work for me.

Strmy wrote:

Hi!

I did check it out.  I went to a "mask expert" and she and I went through about ten different masks.  I ended up choosing a Hybrid with nasal pillows.  It was the best fit that didnt freak me out.  The "pillows" fit snug in my nostrils and a "cup" like piece fits over my mouth and under my chin.  Hopefully this one will work for me.

Good work!  Sounds like you are on the right track.  Hope all works out for you.