New CPAP mask
So my CPAP mask broke again. Same exact failure as the last mask. The plastic fastener that the clip goes into just can only take so many uses before it breaks. So I ordered a different nasal mask, that has a different kind of fastener to see if it would last longer. That mask and I did NOT get along, even though I did not have it fitting too tightly, it left horrible dents in my forehead and literally made my nose bleed! To see the full horror, check out this picture that Christine took right after I woke up:OUCH!!
I also ordered another mask, a “hybrid” mask:
This type of mask fits over your mouth, and uses “nasal pillows” to get the air into your nose. The pillows are actually very comfortable, and don’t go inside your nose as much as just sort of “dock” against your nostrils 
I immediately did a test sleep of 4 hours with this mask, and it is great! By far the most comfortable and effective mask I have ever used.
Reasons I like it:
- Because of the way the headgear fits, no lines on my face or forehead: PICTURE
- Also no irritation and marks to my nose (I was afraid the nasal pillows would beuncomfortable, but I cant even tell they are there)
- Fits over my mouth so takes care of any “mouth-breathing” issues
- Built in chin support – no more darn chin strap to deal with
- Strangely, this mask is absolutely quiet, it doesn’t make a sound like my other nasal masks do. No hissing sounds or whoosh of the air bypass.
- Didn’t wake up with dry mouth, since the chin support keeps my mouth closed, and even if my mouth opens a bit, the pressure keeps the nasal air from coming out of my mouth.
Things I don’t like about it:
- Since it covers my mouth, I can’t easily snag a drink of water from my bedside water bottle – but I may not need it anymore since my mouth did not dry out.
- Due to the air pressure and covering my mouth, its hard to talk. With my nasal mask I had mastered holding my breath and somehow closing off my nasal airway so that I could speak a sentence or two. With this mask I have to almost shout and can barely hear me as it is muffled.
- I am skeptical that the little plastic nubs that the straps connect to (and the strap connectors themselves) will last very long. My other mask had much more substantial fasteners and they eventually broke. Time will tell I guess.
