Sleep therapy can be daunting, and types of CPAP mask are an important part of starting your therapy. It can be overwhelming after your Sleep Apnea diagnosis. At Sleep Healthcare we are dedicated to making sure your treatment is as smooth and that you feel supported along this journey.
One of the first things you will do after diagnosis is look to treatment. A treatment plan will be designed to suit your specific needs. This means finding a machine and mask that is comfortable for you.
Below is a give you a quick summary of the different types of masks that you can use with your positive airway pressure machine.
The mask is an attachment to your machine. The CPAP machine has 3 parts.
- The hose
- The mask
- The machine
It is the mask itself that many struggle with when first starting sleep therapy. It is important that you are comfortable with your mask so you can get a good night’s sleep. For more information on CPAP machines check out this blog.
Types Of CPAP Mask
The first mask we will discuss is a P10 and it’s an intranasal mask. The pillows of this mask sit into your nostrils.
The second mask is an N30i and the N30. For these masks there is a Nasal Cradle where the cradle sits just under your nose.
Some prefer to have the nostrils free, which would mean a nasal cradle would be more suited.
The other style of mask is an N20. This mask actually covers your nose. Now, with these masks, you have to be able to breathe through your nose and keep your mouth closed during treatment. Some can find this difficult.
Once you open your mouth, the air pressure will escape through your mouth, which compromises your treatment. Some find it difficult to adjust to this style of mask, whilst others find it comfortable.
Another style of mask is a full face mask. The F20 covers both your nose and your mouth, and allows you to breathe through your nose or your mouth so you don’t have to keep your mouth closed. This may feel more natural for some, as you can use your nose and mouth which you would ordinarily do during sleep.
The next mask is an F30. It’s got a nasal cradle and a mouthpiece and also allows you to breathe through both your nose and your mouth.
And finally, the F30i. It has a nasal cradle as well as a mouthpiece. The tubing sits at the top of the head, which is different to the F30, which comes out of the mouthpiece.
Why So Many?
All of these variations means’ you are guaranteed to find the right mask for your sleep therapy. We will help you find the right style of mask to suit your needs as well as your comfort,
For more information on the different style of masks, and to see the variations you can check out our video on our YouTube channel.
We are always more than happy to help. If you have any questions, feel free to explore our website, use our live chat or give us a call directly on 1800 717 566.
