I am a new user and my current 90% flow is 18.  I am currently using a Ultra Mirage II nasal mask with good results, but was just wondering if there were any masks better than others for high flow rates.  Thanks

In the sleep lab, I found nasal masks and nasal pillows work better than full face masks for higher pressures.  In my opinion, nasal pillows can handle higher pressures the best.  They won't "blow off".


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Registered Sleep Technologist with 10 years experience.
I also use CPAP.

Okay, SleepMBA, how can I use a nasal mask/pillow when I keep opening my big ole mouth at night while sleeping.  I have been using a Quatro FFM and even with it, occasionally,I open my mouth and get the mask in it.

Thanks for the reply.  I think I would like to try the nasal pillows next, but was unsure how they would work with the higher pressure.  I just may check them out now.

Davebush wrote:

Okay, SleepMBA, how can I use a nasal mask/pillow when I keep opening my big ole mouth at night while sleeping.  I have been using a Quatro FFM and even with it, occasionally,I open my mouth and get the mask in it.

There's a few things you can try.  First, there are many chin straps on the market today.  I prefer using the Respironics Deluxe Chin Strap.  It's like an industrial grade chin strap.  That's the one I use in the sleep lab.  At home, I have a pillow that I have on my chest that I pretty much hug.  I have it up high enough to touch my lower jaw, holding it closed.

There could be other things going on in your case.  Sometimes people will open up their mouths when they are not getting enough air.  This could be from inadequate pressure or maybe the mask not fitting well or leaks in the equipment elsewhere.

Let us know how it goes in your quest to seal up!


_________________
Registered Sleep Technologist with 10 years experience.
I also use CPAP.