How to Use a CPAP Nasal Pillow Mask Properly?

As part of the CPAP therapy, the doctor may recommend you to use a nasal pillow mask with the CPAP machine. The nasal pillow mask is designed to be positioned on the nostrils. Therefore, they are the least bulky of all the CPAP masks. In addition, the nasal pillow mask delivers pressurised air directly into your airways via the nostrils. Therefore, you could use the heated humidifier when using the therapy. This is helpful for patients with a deviated septum.

The nasal pillow mask is light in weight and has an open configuration. Therefore, the nasal pillow mask is considered the most preferred mask for CPAP therapy. The patient does not feel claustrophobic and can watch TV or do reading activities while wearing the mask. The nasal pillow mask is available in different shapes, sizes and configurations as per the comfort level of the patient. Various brands manufacture nasal masks, therefore, the patient gets multiple options to choose from. So, choose the one that fits perfectly the size of your nostrils and allows comfortable breathing when undergoing therapy.

The best way to find out which nasal mask is perfect for you is to test it before choosing it. Here are the tips on selecting the nasal pillow mask and the best way to use the mask:

Selecting the Nasal Pillow Mask

The main thing that you need to consider when selecting the suitable CPAP nasal mask is your sleeping pattern and habits. Understanding your sleeping behaviour will allow you to determine which size of nasal pillow mask gives you the most comfort when using the therapy. Moreover, the choice of the mask also depends on your sleeping position at night, as the nasal pillow mask will stay on your nostrils for the entire night.

The general rule is: if you sleep on your stomach or the sides, you can opt for the large size CPAP nasal mask. With the large size, you can easily change positions at night without affecting the pressured airflow. In addition, the large size pillow will not come loose or change its orientation when you are moving subconsciously at night. This allows you to get better sleep with the mask on.

If you could sleep on the back for more extended periods at a stretch, then you can even opt for the smaller size nasal pillow mask. The small nasal pillow mask is easily portable and comfortable to use when travelling. First, you ask for recommendations from the doctor on the best brands and the correct type of nasal pillow masks specific to your therapy. Before you choose a specific nasal pillow mask, ensure that you have the approval of the doctor. Or else opt for the mask that has been suggested by the doctor.

How to use the Nasal Pillow Mask?

Now that you have selected the correct type of ResMed nasal mask and find it comfortable for your CPAP therapy, you need to understand how to properly use the nasal pillow mask to ensure you make the optimum use for the CPAP therapy.

You need to understand that the mask you select will be on your face for at least 8 hours of your sleep time at night. Therefore, you need to know the best tips for using the nasal pillow mask.

Following are the tips that can help you stay comfortable with the ResMed nasal mask:

• Use Carmex over the exterior of the pillows if you experience irritation in the nose. It lowers air leakage and softens the surface of the nostrils.
• Wash your face thoroughly with a cleanser before wearing the nasal pillow. The oils on your face may impair the seal of the pillow, which can result in skin irritation and other issues.
• Avoid consuming alcohol at least 2 hours before your bedtime, as alcohol can impair your sleep pattern. You are already experiencing sleeping issues. And alcohol will only worsen your woes, and you may not be able to enjoy good sleep.
• Avoid consuming caffeinated food products such as soda, coffee, and tea, 6 hours before bedtime, as caffeine is a stimulant and may obstruct your sleep patterns. It is better to go to sleep with a bit of stimulant in the body at night.

Nasal pillow masks such as the ResMed CPAP nasal mask are designed to give you a healthy and good sleep at night. In addition, they are meant to alleviate your sleep apnea condition and make you feel fresh and energetic in the morning.

If you want to find the best ResMed CPAP nasal mask, you must visit MyCPAP today.