In determining the comfort and effectiveness of your nightly sleep therapy, the appropriate choice of the CPAP mask can be a big difference. Although various types exist, two of the most popular masks are full face and nasal masks. Both operate in a similar manner that tends to deliver pressurized air provided by a CPAP machine though in a slightly different manner.
Knowing the distinction between these two types of CPAP masks can enable you to make a decision that would fit the needs of your sleeping, breathing, and comfort patterns.
A full face CPAP mask is something that resembles a full face mask.
A complete face type CPAP mask covers both the mouth and nose. It is used by individuals who use their mouth to breathe when they sleep or persons who cannot comfortably use their nose to breathe during their sleep at night.
The key advantages of a full face mask are that with it, the air can be administered even in case your mouth opens up in the process of sleeping. This simplifies the therapy process to some people and can alleviate issues brought about by mouth breathing.
Nevertheless, since the mask covers more areas of the face, not all users would find this particular mask to look and feel rather bulky. It is also crucial to get the correct fit. An oversized mask may leak air and a tight one may leave on marks and be uncomfortable to wear.
What is Nasal CPAP Mask?
A nasal CPAP mask just covers the nose and oxygen is supplied via the nasal passages. The design is smaller than a full face mask which is more comfortable to sleep with.
In cases where an individual tends to breathe through his nose at the sleeping time, nasal masks may prove to be a good solution. The smaller size can also help to get a more free feel around the mouth best and can go unnoticed during sleep.
Nevertheless, it requires nasal breathing to be fairly comfortable to use this kind of mask. A nasal mask might not be as convenient as a nasal blockage when your nose becomes stuffy regularly and you find it hard not to talk with your mouth.
What CPAP Headgear is more comfortable?
Not all individuals find the same level of comfort thus no single mask can be termed as the most suitable one to wear by all individuals. There are those that feel more comfortable wearing a nasal mask, whereas there are others who feel safer wearing a complete face version.
It may also depend upon how you sleep. Side sleepers can find a small mask that is not imposing on the pillow. Individuals who move around nights might find it difficult to wear styles that are comfortable before discovering the right fit.
There is also a recollection that even a good quality mask will not be comfortable when the size is incorrect. A better fit can sometimes be more important than the type of mask used.
Full Face or Nasal: which one is better?
The decision to make is primarily based on the way you inhale when sleeping and how comfortable it is to you. A full face mask can be a better choice when you need to face breathe by your mouth on a regular basis or when you find your nose stuffy or you have been recommended to use a full face mask as part of your therapy.
A nasal mask may be preferable, when you breathe primarily by the nose, and when you want a less covering mask. Some people may also find it easier to get used to this, as there is less material covered around the face.
In the event of uncertainty, it can be helpful to consult a sleep expert or CPAP vendor, who could clarify which option might be more suitable to your needs.
The Right Fit Matters.
Regardless of the mask you use be it full face or nasal, it is always important to consider the fit. The mask must seal well without necessarily having to be pulled tightly. You must be certain that you can breathe easily, and sleep without your mask changing every minute.
It may take some time to get used to CPAP therapy. There is nothing wrong with trying another kind of mask or size and think that you are not receiving the treatment. It may be that a minor modification can simplify nighttime use significantly.
Finally the most applicable CPAP mask is the one that fits, is comfortable as well and enables you to stick to your therapy. Both full face and nasal can serve well; therefore, decide your breathing pattern and so as well as comfort and make the final decision.
