British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association

Recently been diagnosed with Sleep Apnoea and went through a number of tests (wired up at home) until a full face mask and CPAP machine was issued to me for a weeks trial. I then returned the equipment and following the technician checking the memory card in the machine, gave me a mask with nasal pillows. This was too large and impossible to either keep on or create a seal so I contacted the centre at Northern General Hospital, Sheffield. They then gave another mask (small size). This is better and I can actually sleep in it. My problem is that after a while - usually a few hours - I awake with the mask dislodged, a gale blowing into my eyes and a mouth like the Sahara Desert. I think that as I fall asleep, my jaw relaxes and then drops down and back, opening my mouth etc. I have tried a chin strap but cannot seem to get a comfortable one. Can anyone give a solution please?

I wonder if you might be better with a nasal pillows mask. Talk to your clinic.

I wonder if you would be better with a full face mask if your mouth is opening whilst asleep ???

Regards,

Whoops I was having a senior moment and didn't see that you'd tried nasal pillows ... yup, it might be worth looking at a full face mask or a hybrid one ... but go back and nag your clinic.

Many Thanks for your replies. A more full explanation of my experiences may shed a little light on my individual problem.

I tried a full face mask in a weeks trial following two home tests with monitors strapped to my chest etc. to find the level of air flow I needed (15 cu/litres per min I think). My nose felt like I had been in the local gym with a good middleweight for a few rounds so I was pleased when the other masks were offered me. I did ask for a nasal mask but because I have a restriction in my left nostril and a polyp growing in my right, this ain't possible. I do seem to be accepting the mask better and can drop off easier than in the earlier weeks, just can't keep the mask in the right place for much more than two hours at a time.

Thanks for getting back in touch to explain things Leviticus. It helps us understand your situation a bit better.

I know it's frustrating hearing the same message over and over again, but perseverance is the key to success with xPAP therapy. You will find things get easier as time goes by ..it's a massive lifestyle change and it does take people a different amount of time to get used to it.

Two hours is better than nothing, and I'm sure that if you keep putting that mask back on, the length of time it will stay on will increase proportionately! All the best! x

I have got a special type of chin strap and find that I can sleep longer without pulling the mask and everything off. I have noticed that since I started using the mask etc. I cannot seem to get rid of a head cold and get chest problems more often. Also I have had four or five Migraine attacks while wearing the mask, no pain, just the flashing triangles. Normally I would have one of these every six months or so. Anyone else noticed thseproblems?