People with sleep apnea need to have a CPAP machine as the primary equipment that helps them to deal with such a problem and get better nights. However, it has been established that the use of the CPAP therapy depends on the type of mask used in the treatment. Many types of CPAP masks Canada has been created to fit into particular requirements. It is therefore important to familiarize your self with the various types of CPAP mask available, so that you can be able to identify with the one that will suffice your needs in order to make the APAP therapy a success.
1. Nasal Masks
Nasal masks are also among the popular types of CPAP masks used in Canada among other countries. Some of them are crafted to cover only the nose and are intended to provide the patient with a constant flow of the air through the nostrils. It is important to use these masks for persons who breathe through their nose mostly at night.
Benefits of Nasal Masks:
Comfort: The nasal masks are smaller in size and take less space around the face as compared to full face masks thus making them more comfortable.
Good Seal: It commonly delivers a good seal and therefore minimizes air infiltration preventing a compromise on therapy.
Variety of Sizes: As for the variations, nasal masks can be small or large and allow to put the mask on different types of faces and different sizes of noses.
Considerations:
Mouth Breathers: This is not ideal for people who breathe through their mouth especially when they are sleeping at night, and may require the use of chin strap or a humidifier.
Congestion: People with a runny nose or allergies may have a bit of a problem using this kind of mask.
2. Full-Face Masks
They seal around the lower face area including the nose and the mouth as compared to the half-face masks. It is especially important for such people as those who breathe through their mouth while sleeping or having constant congestion.
Benefits of Full-Face Masks:
Mouth Breathing: They are the most suitable while undergoing the therapy since they guarantee its performance regardless of an open mouth during sleep.
High Pressure: Nonetheless, compliance is more enhanced in full-face masks since they are more secure in individuals that seem to require higher pressure settings of CPAP.
Reduced Dryness: This mask design assists to reduce dryness around the mouth and throat, a problem that plagues users of nasal mask.
Considerations:
Size and Bulk: Full-face masks are larger and also feel much heavier than nasal-only masks, which may cause discomforts to some users particularly side sleepers.
Pressure Points: Due to the larger size it is possible to experience pressure on more facial skin which in some cases can cause discomfort or developing of skin rash.
3. Nasal Pillow Masks
Nasal pillow masks are the least encumbering, they are comprised of little cushions or ‘pillows’ which rest at the opening of the nostrils. It is a type of CPAP mask that is least invasive and those patients who look for lightly invasive CPAP mask type will certainly prefer these.
Benefits of Nasal Pillow Masks:
Minimal Contact: These masks are less invasive allowing little to no contact with the face: people who find pressure claustrophobic will find these small masks comfortable.
Clear Vision: It should be noted that these masks do not obscure the vision since they may be used by individuals who read or watch television before going to bed.
Less Bulk: Nasal pillow masks do not cover much of the face and head and because of this they can firmly secure in place when the user is an active sleeper who turns and tosses often at night.
Considerations:
Nasal Irritation: Some of the side effects that are likely to be observed are stinging or dryness of the nostrils especially if user is using a high pressured CPAP.
Not for High Pressure: Rather, these types of masks should not be used by those patients who need high level of CPAP pressure since the direct airflow onto the nostrils may be rather bitter.
4. Hybrid Masks
Full-face masks cover the mouth and nose while nasal masks are designed to cover the user’s nose only; therefore, hybrid masks offer a perfect blend of the two types for every patient. Though these masks are worn like the full face mask, it has nasal pillows that covers the mouth instead of the nose.
Benefits of Hybrid Masks:
Versatility: This type of masks is suitable for patients who require full facial mask but have a taste of Nasal pillows type.
Reduced Bulk: In comparison to the full face masks, they are not as heavy and bulky hence preferred by many people.
No Forehead Support: Unlike many purpose-built clear masks, some hybrid masks lack a forehead guard, which should bring comfort to some wearers.
Considerations:
Complex Fit: Adapting a hybrid mask might be slightly challenging since the side with the mouth has to be adjusted while the other has nasal pillows.
Leak Potential: Where the hybrid masks are not properly adjusted, leakages may occur around the areas of the nose or the mouth.
Conclusion
Choosing the best type of CPAP mask definitely plays the critical role in the success of the sleep apnea therapy. You can check this list of CPAP masks available in Canada and each of them are developed to cater the necessity of different users. Before making your decision whether to go with a nasal mask, a full face mask, a nasal pillow mask or a hybrid mask, you have to understand the specifics of each type. Always consult your doctor or an experienced CPAP specialist to determine which mask is most appropriate for you to come up with the best choice that will not only be comfortable to wear and use but also will encourage you to stick with your therapy regimen.
