Guide for Fitting Nasal CPAP Mask

1
Guide for Fitting Nasal CPAP Mask
2
Introduction

• To get the most out of a nasal CPAP mask, it is
  important to wear it correctly. It will give you
  sound sleep and eradicate the sleep problems as
  well. Thus, you will wake up fresh and energetic
  every morning. The best way to stop Nasal CPAP
  Masks from leaking it is necessary to have them
  fit perfectly to the nose. To get a good mask
  seal, here are some steps that you can consider.

3
Nasal CPAP Mask
4
Step 1

• While choosing a CPAP mask for sleep apnea you
  need to look carefully at the following and then
  decide whether the mask allocates to fit your
  nose or not.
• Check the mask cushion and know whether you have
  a short or long nose. Consider the nose length
  from the bridge of the nose to the bottom. Check
  the width of the cushion. Remember, the inner
  measurements are more important here. If you have
  a broad nose then select a mask with wider
  fitting.

5
Step 2

• Then while sitting and standing you need to
  adjust the headgear so the mask should sit
  appropriately at one place. Try to lie down on a
  bed if it is available to check the fit. If you
  sleep on your side then check for CPAP masks for
  side sleepers. Lie down on your back and it will
  help you get the best fit. If there are no places
  to lie down then do the following.

6
Step 3

• Attach the masks to the CPAP machine hose and
  turn it on. Now lift the mask off your face and
  allow the cushion to fill the air. The mask
  should be able to settle on your face and then
  adjust the headgear straps so you can get a
  comfortable fit. To check this you must be able
  to stack two fingers between the cheek and your
  straps. If it happens in this way then it means
  it is comfortable.

7
Step 4

• If the mask is leaking around the eyes then you
  need to lift the mask from your face slightly so
  it should sit down well. It will help in sealing
  the pesky leaks which are irritating for the
  wearer.

8
Step 5

• Move the mask side to side slowly and then twitch
  the nose so the leaks can be stopped. Try making
  some funny faces so you can understand the fit.
  If there is a bed then make adjustments to the
  headgear so mask leaks can be stopped. Tighten
  the mask slightly so it doesnt shift when you
  turn over. If you are not very comfortable then
  you can go for Full Face CPAP Mask.

9
Step 6

• You must not tighten the mask too much as you
  will wear it for more than ten hours and even a
  small discomfort can be exasperated during this
  sleep time.

10
Conclusion

• It should be noted that nasal CPAP masks are not
  custom made for a particular nose and the best
  thing which one can do is to choose a mask which
  supports them the best. If you need to make small
  adjustments to optimize the fit then also it is
  ok. So, use these steps whenever you think of
  buying a mask. Try another mask and start from
  step 1 which will help you choose the best mask.