Sleep Apnea Mask: Works Like Magic!
Sleep apnea is a disorder that happens as you breathe while you are asleep. This disorder causes you to have pauses in your breathing while you are sleeping. One of the best treatments for the disorder is the use of a sleep apnea mask. These masks are also called CPAP machines, which means continuous positive airway pressure. These machines push air into the patient’s nose, and mouth through the sleep apnea mask.
The problem with the sleep apnea mask is that the fit has to be perfect. These masks must seal the nose, or nose and mouth area, but at the same time be comfortable enough to sleep in. When the mask is too big then the air cannot flow through as it should. In most cases all a patient has to do is tighten the straps, but keep from over tightening so that the mask does not become uncomfortable.
You also need to make sure that the mask is the right size because if it is too small, then it won’t seal and air will leak through the edges. There are different types of sleep apnea masks you can choose from, to help you achieve a comfortable fit and find a mask that will seal and allow the air to flow into your lungs.
The Full Facemask
This type of sleep apnea mask will cover the nose and the mouth. Since the mask covers both the nose and mouth there is compensation if any leaks are experienced.
The Nasal Mask
This type of mask covers the nose and is the most common of the CPAP masks because it is more comfortable for patients to use. Its size is smaller and so allows patients to sleep more comfortably. You just need to make sure that it fits correctly on your face.
The Nasal Pillow
This is not really a mask but soft tubes that fit into the nostrils. This method eliminates air leaks because the air is placed directly in the nose. Some people believe this method is the most comfortable.
The sleep apnea mask has adjustable straps that fit around your head and you will need to customize to minimize air leakage. The mask is usually mad of a plastic part and then a silicone seal. When the machine is turned on the silicone inflates, so you probably don’t need to adjust the straps too tightly so you leave a little leeway for the silicone inflation.
Some people are allergic to silicone and in these cases there are special sleep apnea masks made of vinyl or sometimes of synthetic rubber. They are usually also equipped with a gel which helps the mask mold to the face and eliminate some of the pressure.
At any rate when you are prescribed a sleep apnea mask you will need to get used to sleeping with it . This may take several weeks for you to become accustomed to wearing it.
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