CPAP Mask Guide: Nasal Pillow Masks
February 21, 2012 in CPAP, CPAP Masks, Full Face CPAP Masks, Guides, Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks, Philips Respironics, ResMed, Uncategorized
One of the questions we often are asked at BuyPAP.com is “how do I know which CPAP mask to choose?”
It’s true that in today’s market there are literally dozens of masks available to the CPAP user. But this doesn’t mean that the choosing a mask needs to be difficult. Let’s look at some different types of masks and their features, uses, and pros and cons:
Part 3: Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks
Swift FX for Her Nasal Pillow Mask
Pillow CPAP masks are an alternative to both traditional Nasal CPAP masks and Full Face masks. They are generally much smaller, lighter, and connect directly into the nostrils to create a seal. The benefits of this type of mask derive from their small footprints and open lines of sight. Nasal pillows require less connection to the patient, resulting in an easier seal. Claustrophobic or sensitive users like their open design and some nasal pillow masks are rated as the quietest CPAP masks on the market. However, at higher CPAP pressures (>15cm H2O) Nasal Pillows may not be the easiest masks to breathe on due to the lack of “dead space” in which to exhale, but this should not affect most users.
Pillow Masks now also come in a Full Face Pillow mask style to compensate for mouth leaks. These masks have a chamber that seals around the mouth with nasal pillows integrated into the top. This style affords users the benefits of both an open Nasal Pillow design, and the added protection against mouth leaks.
Here are examples of Nasal Pillow Masks:
The ResMed Swift LT Nasal Pillow mask is one of the quietest CPAP masks available.
The Respironics GoLife is stylish, quiet, and comfortable.
And here is an example of a Pillow FFM’s:
The ResMed Liberty FFM covers the allows for mouth breathing as well as nasal.
Our take on Pillow style CPAP masks:
Pros:
- Very lightweight
- Quiet
- Open line of sight for patient
- Small surface area for seal makes for a better connection
Cons:
- Harder to breathe with at high pressures
- Some users may experience pain in nostrils for the first few nights of use
- Dependent on Chin Strap to correct mouth leak (unless using FFM Pillow mask)
As always you’ll find the best prices and a huge selection of the latest PAP masks from the leading manufacturers like ResMed, Philips Respironics, and Fisher & Paykel at BuyPAP.com.
