Are you committed to improving your health in 2022? One great way to do this is by making sure you’re getting quality sleep at night. Too many people suffer from sleep apnea and snoring, which can prevent them from achieving deep, restorative sleep. Don’t forget that snoring and sleep apnea affect your partner, as well. Getting a sleep apnea mask can not only help you achieve better sleep and health in 2022, but it can help your partner achieve these same goals as well.
When it comes to buying CPAP masks full face or nasal-only options, it’s a good idea to do some research. You can find out which sleep apnea masks are most popular based on their effectiveness and comfort levels. Buying a sleep apnea mask is a pretty big investment for most people, so it’s important to make a wise choice before you click “buy.”
One Size Does Not Fit All
Sleep apnea masks are not all the same size, so one size will not fit all people. That’s why it’s important to measure your face carefully for your mask and make sure you choose one that will fit without being too tight or too loose.
It’s also essential to understand the difference between a CPAP vs BiPAP mask. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, while BiPAP is an acronym for BiLevel Positive Airway Pressure. Though they may look very similar at first glance, here are some of the major differences between the two:
CPAP Masks:
- Are generally more affordable
- Provide a single, set pressure to help keep your airway open during sleep
- Work best for obstructive sleep apnea
- May not accommodate changes in breathing experienced during central sleep apnea
BiPAP Masks:
- May be more expensive than CPAP masks
- Offer two separate pressure settings (one for when you inhale and one for when you exhale)
- Work best for central sleep apnea and more complex breathing and sleep disorders
- May not be recommended for obstructive sleep apnea
When selecting the right mask, it’s important to figure out whether your sleep disorder would respond best to a CPAP mask or a BiPAP mask. You may want to consult with your doctor to make this determination.
Choosing the Right CPAP Mask for Me
There are so many different CPAP masks to choose from, including the P10 CPAP mask, various full-face masks and nasal-only masks. If you’re struggling to choose the right CPAP mask for your situation, you are not alone. Selecting a CPAP mask is a struggle for many people with sleep apnea.
When making your final decision, consider your typical sleep position at night. Some CPAP masks work best for side sleepers (including nasal pillows) while others work well for back sleepers (such as full-face masks). If you sleep on your stomach, you will most likely have some challenges keeping any type of CPAP mask on all night long. However, low-profile nasal pillows may work best for you because they are less likely to become dislodged or cause discomfort for stomach sleepers than full-face masks.
No matter what type of mask you choose, keep in mind that it may take several nights or even weeks to become fully comfortable with it. Keep wearing it and you will soon discover the benefits of improved sleep.
