Sleep apnea is a respiratory illness that affects millions of persons, many of whom are treated with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine. Because CPAP therapy necessitates the use of a mask, many people assume that CPAP users must sleep on their back because the mask is too thick to sleep comfortably on their side or stomach. CPAP masks, on the other hand, come in a variety of styles, some of which are thicker than others. While some CPAP users are required to wear a certain mask type, others are allowed to choose a mask depending on their preferred sleeping position.
When selecting a CPAP pro mask, it is critical to follow the recommendations of your sleep expert. Before you alter mask types, talk to them to find out whether your chosen choice will work for you. Each mask form exists for a purpose, and not all masks are suitable for all CPAP users.
How to select a CPAP mask depending on your sleep position?
Full-face, nasal, and nasal cushion masks are the three most prevalent cpap mask styles. Full-face masks are the bulkiest since they cover both the nose and the mouth, while nasal masks simply cover the nose. Nasal pillow masks are the least noticeable since they merely cover the nostrils and lack a rigid shell.
Because CPAP masks need a tight seal to prevent air leaks, sleeping in a position that pushes on the mask is more than just unpleasant; it may also jeopardize the effectiveness of your therapy. The headgear on the CPAP mask may also disrupt sleep, especially if it has harsh plastic buckles or rigid anchor straps. When selecting a CPAP mask, consider both the mask’s footprint length, breadth, and depth and where the headgear lays on your face. The idea is to locate a mask that is both useful and pleasant for you to sleep in.
Side sleeper CPAP masks
Sleeping on your side is one of the greatest positions for sleep apnea treatment since gravity does not affect your airway as much as it does while sleeping on your back or stomach. Unfortunately, side sleepers often have difficulty finding the correct CPAP mask.
Because its low profile rests higher than the pillow itself, nasal pillow masks are a suitable solution for side sleepers who can handle them. Nasal masks, which cover all or part of the nose, are another alternative that many side sleepers find useful. The better versions have good seals as well as comfortable and adjustable headgear. These characteristics aid in air leak prevention, although side sleepers may still need a CPAP-friendly cushion to support the heaviness of even a nose mask.
Back sleepers CPAP masks
CPAP users who sleep on their backs have a wide range of mask options since this posture easily fits full-face masks. While sleeping on your back may be the optimal posture if you wear a CPAP mask, sleeping in this position might induce airway collapse due to gravity. If your doctor is aware that you sleep on your back and has not advised you to modify your sleeping position, you will most likely be satisfied with any mask that is effective and meets your other demands. The posture also makes it tough to remove your mask, however certain back sleepers may have difficulty with single-strap headgear.
