CPAP Mask Leakage/Broken Seal
Leakage. No one likes when their CPAP machine or mask isn’t working like it should be. Especially when it’s the mask. No need to fear, Sleeptopia is here to get you taken care of! We specialize in sleep wellness and CPAP leaks are something that we can help with!
Did you know that Full face masks leak more frequently than nasal models?
Higher pressure settings can also cause the mask seals to break when a patient is having more apneas through the night.
There is a period of adjustment when first starting your therapy with a CPAP. In this adjustment period, may CPAP users will be exploring the different mask options that are provided to them, but this is vital. Your CPAP mask is what allows you to get the sleep that you deserve. If your mask is leaking, this can affect your pressure. Many CPAP users when experiencing leakage will notice that the CPAP machine will ramp up the pressure, leading to the patient having to take off their mask due to too much pressure.
The automatic CPAP notices when you are having an apnea, and will adjust the pressure of airflow to accommodate for the pressure needed to stop the apnea from occurring. This can cause a person to awaken if the pressure is too much for them to handle.
Leakage in a patient’s mask can cause a variety of other affects. If the pressure increases and the seal of the mask is broken, it can lead to air blowing at the eyes and dry them out. This can also cause a significant hissing noise that can disturb your bed partner. Another side affect of leakage is if the mask is not on correctly, it can lead to the person sleeping with a collapsed or partially collapsed airflow passage way.
So what’s the fix?
Remember, leakage may not be what is causing the issue, but there are some tips to figure out if it is a leak. Most times, leakage is easily identified.
Do you notice your CPAP pressure increase to a higher level than normal?
That could be a leak!
Is pressurized air blowing on your face?
That could be a broken seal on your mask!
Does your mask seem to have air coming out of ports near the hose attachment of your mask?
That is normal, no need to worry. These are the mask’s exhaled air port and are on every mask for the ability to exhale while using your CPAP.
Just because it sounds like a leak,
does not means that it is a leak.
Something to pay attention to is making sure that the mask is put on correctly. It is simple to get things twisted, especially if you wake up in a rush and throw it off. If you have any issue trying to get your mask to fit properly, please reach out to your medical equipment provider for the best fitting.
Clean your mask cushions every day
Cleaning your cushions daily will result in removing all of the oils from your skin and lotions that may have resided on your mask. You can wash your cushions each morning after you wake up, or you can use wipes, such as hand wipes, baby wipes, or CPAP wipes, as an alternative to cleansing your mask with soap and water. Warning: If wipes are used, they is a chance for left over residue on the cushion which may result in a rash. It is recommended for a CPAP user to wash and cleanse their face before putting your CPAP mask on. This will result in a better seal.
Worn out mask parts
Something to be cautious of is the wear on your mask’s cushion and headgear. Over time, products wear down. Sleeptopia recommends replacing your nasal cushions twice a month, and your full face cushion once a month. If your headgear, the felt Velcro staps that hold the cushion and frame together, can wear down. Sleeptopia recommends replacing this supply item every 6 months. If you notice this supply item wearing down, you can put it in the washer and dryer to rejuvenate it.
Wrong size of cushion/mask
Something that may cause issues with leakage is the size of your cushion/mask. If your cushion is too big or too small, this may be the cause of the mask leaking due to the mask not sealing. When getting fitted for a CPAP, most patient’s end up switching sizes of cushions or changing their mask entirely for comfort purposes. If you are not comfortable, whether the mask is too loose or too tight, speak with the medical equipment provider to find the best solution.
Adjust the straps on the headgear
Over time, the headgear may get stretched out or become loose. If you are experiencing leaks, the headgear may just need to be tightened.
If the Velcro isn’t sticking as well, you can put it in the washer and dryer for a fresh stretch!
By adjusting your mask’s tightness, it should not be painful or leave masks on your face for more than two hours post-therapy.
Switch to a different mask
Within the first month of using a CPAP, a majority of CPAP users will switch their masks. Whether it’s from a nasal to a full face, nasal to pillows, or pillows to a full face, there is always another option to try! Talk to your medical provider about your sleeping patterns, such as sleeping with your mouth open, not being sure, or what they would recommend.
More Information
tvc.org - Mask Leak Solutions
www.cpap.com - CPAP Mask Leaks : Causes and Solutions
www.resmed.com - Stop CPAP Mask from Leaking
www.resmed.com - CPAP Complaints with Mask Leaks
www.sleepdr.com - Why Your Mask is Leaking
aeroflowsleep.com - Mask Leak Solutions
mytranscend.com - Fix and Prevent Leakage