CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) has long been considered the most effective treatment for sleep apnea.
Yet, one of the most frequent complaints we hear from CPAP users is that their mask leaks. How do they know? They say when they exhale, they feel air rush into their eyes, drying them out. Or they hear a hissing or whistling noise, which bothers their bed partner. Or they wake with a dry mouth or sore throat.
Mask leaks can be a significant problem. In fact, studies show that 45% of former CPAP users stopped their treatment because of mask leaks.
Stopping use of your CPAP mask is not the solution. “To effectively treat your sleep apnea, you should use your CPAP machine every night,” says Robert Miller, Apria Healthcare Vice President of Sleep Business.
Following are simple tips to fix the most common reasons for mask leaks.
How to fix: If your mask used to fit well but now leaks, facial oil or dirt may be compromising the seal. That’s why it’s important to regularly clean your mask.
Once you get into the habit, cleaning your mask (as well as your CPAP machine) is a snap. And you can use supplies you have in your home, such as warm, clean water; mild soap or baby shampoo; clean, dry towels; and a sink or tub to hold the items you are cleaning.
You should clean your CPAP mask—including the cushion, headgear, and frame—every day. You should also clean CPAP filters, tubing, and the humidifier once a week.
This will reduce the risk of leaks and prevent the buildup of bacteria, mold, dust, and germs, which may cause such conditions as pneumonia or sinus infections. Learn more about the dos and don’ts of CPAP cleaning.
Apria’s Robert Miller adds, “One more tip: washing your face before you put on your mask helps form a better seal.”
How to fix: The mask seals fine when you first put it on, but then the seal breaks when you sleep. This may be because facial muscles relax once you fall asleep, which can change the shape of your face.
Try putting the mask on when you are in the sleeping position.
How to fix: Your mask should fit snugly—not overly tight, not overly loose. It also shouldn’t cause headaches or pain or leave marks on your face after you’ve been awake for more than two hours.
Adjust your mask when you are lying down since your face shape is different from when you stand or sit. Then tighten the straps until your mask feels snug and secure.
How to fix: We all have different facial structures. Before you purchase a mask, try on a variety of styles and sizes to find the one that best fits your face. Be sure to try them on lying down.
We also have our favorite sleeping position. But one mask isn’t appropriate for all. Here are mask recommendations for a variety of sleeping positions:
Learn more about choosing the right CPAP mask for your sleeping position.
How to fix: Your CPAP machine delivers pressurized air to keep your airways open and help you breathe—and sleep—more easily. Your doctor will prescribe your air pressure setting. But studies show that high air pressure can cause masks to break their seal, which leads to leakage. Talk with your doctor about adjusting your air pressure settings.
Also, if your CPAP machine has a ramp feature, use it. This starts at a low pressure and then gradually increases it to your prescribed pressure setting as you sleep.
How to fix: Sometimes, just cleaning your mask doesn’t do the trick. You may need to replace the cushion and even the mask itself.
At Apria, we’re here to help. We have several convenient ordering options to keep your CPAP supplies fresh. Learn more now!
References
1. Summer, J. (2022, November 8). Common Side Effects of CPAP. Sleep Foundation. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/cpap/cpap-side-effects#:~:text=Mask%20leaks%20can%20occur%20when,or%20does%20not%20seal%20well.
2. Junkin, M. (2020, July 10). Annoyed by CPAP mask leaks? Try these 6 fixes.
Vancouver Clinic. https://tvc.org/news/cpap-mask-leaks/.
3. CPAP Mask Leak Problems: How To Prevent CPAP Mask Leakage.
Sleep Apnea Guide. https://www.sleep-apnea-guide.com/cpap-mask-leak.html.
4. Sellman, K. (2023 January). How to Conquer CPAP Leaks: Tips and Tricks.
SleepApnea.Sleep-Disorders.net. https://sleepapnea.sleep-disorders.net/living/tips-cpap-leaks.
5. Common CPAP complaint: My CPAP mask leaks. ResMed. https://www.resmed.com/en-us/sleep-apnea/sleep-blog/common-cpap-complaint-my-cpap-mask-leaks/.
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