This hose is typically about 6ft. in length. The fit and comfort of the sleep apnea mask is critical for your comfort while sleeping.
A poorly fitting sleep apnea mask is not only uncomfortable but will allow air to leak. This creates noise for you and your sleeping partner and causes the sleep apnea machine to under perform its function. You may have to try different sleep apnea masks to find the one that works best for your sleeping habits.
All the sleep apnea machines deliver the air pressure to you through a reinforced flexible hose that is attached to the sleep apnea mask you select. This mask must fit your nose properly to get a good seal and to work properly.
There are three styles of sleep apnea masks available:
The nasal sleep apnea mask is the most commonly used mask by apnea sufferers and is the one typically prescribed for first time users.
It can be bulky and take awhile to get used to the mask but, most people tolerate it fairly well. This is the mask style that almost every newly diagnosed individual will use with their new sleep apnea machine.
Most people will never change the type of mask they first use. In addition, this type of sleep apnea mask is popular with people who are restless sleepers. This mask covers the entire nose and is held in place by straps or headgear.
The full face sleep apnea mask may be needed if you breathe through your mouth or your mouth tends to drop open while you sleep.
The chin strap is disliked by many people because it requires using two different devices. It creates a situation where there is just too many straps to manipulate.
All you have to do is try an untangle your mask straps in the middle of the night after taking it off for a quick bathroom break.
It is also an alternative for people who suffer from chronic sinus issues. It is also held in place by straps and headgear. The full face mask eliminates the need for a separate chin strap. It is however, the most bulky and uncomfortable mask used for sleep apnea.
For side sleepers the nasal prong device is the sleep apnea mask of choice. This type of sleep apnea mask fits under the nose with nasal openings that fit inside the nostril. It sounds intrusive but it is quite comfortable.
The prongs are pliable and made from a silicon based material.
The advantage is obvious once you see this unique sleep apnea device.
Their are no obstructions to the ability to turn side to side. The hose attaches from the top which keeps it out of the way while you are sleeping. No more getting tangled in the air supply hose.
Newer models introduced are the nasal pillows. This mask doesn’t seal as well as the nasal prong device and it is more uncomfortable to wear.
The nasal pillow fits up against the nostrils but does not insert into the nostrils like the nasal prong.
The differences between the two are subtle but users will have clear preferences depending on their facial structure and sleeping habits.
No matter which sleep apnea mask style you choose you will want to make sure to get one that fits well and does not leak.
A mask should last 6 months to a year though manufacturers recommend replacing the mask every 3 months and the entire mask setup (mask, hose, head gear) every 6 months. If you clean your sleep apnea machine, mask and the air hose everyday your mask may last you much longer. You may have to tighten the head gear straps to get a better seal over time but as long as you don’t have leaks and the gear is still comfortable your mask should work fine.
As always, the opinion of your doctor or sleep technician is the final say on your sleep apnea mask replacement schedule.
