If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apnea and have been recommended to use a CPAP mask may be just the interface you need to relieve some of the problems that CPAP endures, such as claustrophobia and air leaks. Nasal pillow CPAP masks are suitable for you.
Nasal Pillows for CPAP Therapy
Nasal pillows are CPAP masks with plastic inserts that look like headphone earbuds that slide directly into the nostrils. The recommended pressure applied to keep the airway open is delivered through this mask. These tiny cushions rest on the end of the nose and can help overcome troubles like claustrophobia and air leaks.
Benefits of Using a Nasal Pillow Mask
Nasal pillows are an excellent option for some people. If you have claustrophobia, you may find it tricky to keep a large mask on your face. In particular, a mask blocking your eyes can be irritating. In this case, nasal pillows can be supportive because they only obstruct your vision and make very little direct interaction with the face.
Also, men with facial hair such as a large beard or mustache may have inconvenience sealing it with a typical CPAP mask that fits over the nose or around the mouth. It may be necessary to lower the mask so tightly that it becomes uncomfortable to reduce air leaks. Nasal pillow mask eradicates this by exerting CPAP pressure directly to the nostrils.
In addition, some people opt to buy nasal pillows from the best online CPAP store because they do not leave scars on the face from the mask interface or the bands needed to hold the mask in place. Some people prefer to alternate multiple mask styles daily because this will reduce scars from the mask kit.
Use Accessories That Can Make Compliance Easier
In addition to having the proper style and suitability, you’ll also want to discover some other CPAP accessories that make the treatment simpler to endure.
The headgear used to protect the CPAP mask to your head can have features as diverse as the mask interface. Many are crafted from fabric that is machine washable. Some may consist of Velcro to adapt the fit. Others may have plastic quick-release pins that allow you to fit it exactly once and easily take it on and off. That way, you don’t have to continuously adjust and settle to find the right fit every time you use it.
If you find yourself breathing through your mouth, you may need to use a chinstrap. Most patients benefit from a heated humidifier connected or built into a CPAP machine to humidify the air. Heated tubing is also available, which prevents dampness or evaporation in the tubing.
If you have trouble bearing pressure while you sleep, you may need a machine with a ramp function that starts with a bit of pressure and then gradually increases the pressure of your therapy over a fixed period.
If plastic annoys your skin, or if you’re having hassle obtaining a good seal without too much air leakage, you may need to use a mask liner. Some cushions and pads can make a good fitting of the mask.
There are many convenient accessories available to you in online CPAP stores in Dallas, and they can improve your life and make you more likely to comply with CPAP therapy.
Problems Associated with Using Nasal Pillows
However, nasal pillows masks may not be suitable for everyone. Some people don’t find them comfortable. Especially, pillows can itch or irritate the nostrils. If they don’t fit properly, they can cause sores within the nostrils.
The nasal pillows must be appropriately designed. If they are too small, air may leak around them and decrease the influence of your therapy. Conversely, if the nasal pillows are big, they can stretch out the nostrils uncomfortably.
Potentially, persons with delicate skin could make a reaction against plastic. Even for people who are not allergic, repeated use of misfitting masks can lead to pressure sores in the nostrils.
These complications are unusual, and appropriate fitting will resolve most issues. Many people consider nasal pillows to be a favorable alternative to the system of CPAP to treat their sleep apnea disorder.
If you’re intended to try out these pillow masks, consult with your practitioner or device provider and get the best-fit size mask for you from an online CPAP store in Dallas.