I must admit, I have had sleep apnea for over 4 years now and had no idea that these types of forums existed.  I just happened to stumble across it while trying to see if I could purchase a new mask.  I was never told of any options or anything 4 yrs ago.

So my first question, I have been using a cpap nasal mask for over 4 years.  It is definitely time to get a new one.  How different is the nasal mask compared to the nasal pillow.  They look a lot more comfortable since there are options with very little straps, especially across my face.  My pressure is 12 from what I remember.

Again, when I got prescribed my cpap machine, I was never told I had options.  I was given some equipment (machine and mask), taught the basics how to use it, told to pay for it and never contacted again.  I would really appreciate the help.

Masks are very personal (of course) - I can't stand the nasal or full face masks.  I started with the Swift LT and liked it, until I had problems with leaks (there are reports of problems with the pillows degrading fairly quickly).  I've since tried a bunch of masks, and finally landed on the AEIOMed Headrest.  I love this mask - nothing touches your face, it stays in place all night (0 leaks) and is very comfortable.  


Many people are reporting good success with the new Swift FX; so maybe try either the Headrest or the Swift FX.

Masks are a very very personal choice! You need to try them on, lying down, at YOUR pressure. The best thought would be to go back to whoever outfitted you with your first mask and try some other styles and brands. Once you have a clear favourite, then you can start purchasing online (where they are cheaper).

jessy 49 wrote:

Masks are a very very personal choice! You need to try them on, lying down, at YOUR pressure. The best thought would be to go back to whoever outfitted you with your first mask and try some other styles and brands. Once you have a clear favourite, then you can start purchasing online (where they are cheaper).

I guess that is my problem.  When I got my first cpap machine, she (tech) came to my house with only one type of mask.  I asked to try different ones, but she told she didn't have any and that the nasal mask was the only one I could use.  When I mentioned to my sleep therapist during my follow-up test, they called and complained.  The next day I got a call from the tech telling me that if I wanted to try different masks that I would need to schedule an appointment but next appointment would be over 3 weeks.  That I could not use the mask I was given and that she would need to tell the doctor that I was not using the cpap machine which meant that he would need to report to the Ministry of Transportation that I was a risk to drive since I had sleep apnea.  I didn't know what to do, so I shut up and made due.  4 years later, its almost better sleeping without the mask since I can't get any sleep with it.

Long story short, does anyone know where I can go in the Toronto area to try on and test out some masks and pillows.  I can take my cpap machine, but I would definitely like to make a more informed decision with more choice.

I use a company called Medigas -- there are several in the TO area. Don't know if you need an appointment -- I always made one but there always seemed to be random people droppping in while I was there. They certainly have a large selection of masks and they allow you to try on various models and styles. After several years you are due for a new mask and hose! Have you been changing filters?

I understand about the MOT threat -- I changed suppliers in the middle of originally getting set up with cpap. The original supplier sent a letter to my family doc saying that I was non-compliant and should be reported to MOT and that they had made every effort to contact me and get me set up ! HA! What a crock! They never answered their phone, were never there, didn't know their head from their ***, and, during a really scary time, did everything they could to make me feel like an incompentent idiot.

Let me know if you need any more info.

Personally, they started me on the Swift FX, but after a week I had to go in for a different mask.  It was making the end of my nose feel raw - like your nose feels after you blow it constantly from having a cold.  Tech told me that they had never had that complaint before.  I switched over to the Mirage Vista - so much more comfortable for me.  My only complaint with the Vista is that the hose coming off the mask is less flexible than the one on the FX.