Sleep apnea is a breathing disorder that occurs during the night. It is characterized by a decrease or a complete stop in breathing, which varies from one patient to another. The mask used to combat sleep apnea is a key device in treatment, either through CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy.
This specific treatment includes a CPAP machine that delivers pressurized air.
What exactly is a sleep apnea mask? What is it used for? What are the different types of sleep apnea masks and how do they work? What are their advantages and disadvantages? What are the possible side effects?
Let’s dive into all of this in detail. Here we go!
What is the Purpose of a Sleep Apnea Mask ?
There are different treatments for sleep apnea depending on the severity, which is diagnosed by a doctor and often confirmed by an ENT specialist.
For mild to moderate sleep apnea, patients may be directed toward devices like mandibular advancement splints or intranasal devices such as the one offered by Back2Sleep.
In more severe cases, patients are directed toward treatments involving a sleep mask. These masks are prescribed following medical examinations such as a polygraphy or a polysomnography.
More than a million French people sleep with a sleep apnea mask.
The Different Types of Sleep Apnea Masks
There are four main types of masks prescribed or recommended for sleep apnea treatment:
Nasal Pillow Masks
Nasal pillow masks feature a pair of cushions that seal inside the nostrils. This device delivers pressurized air directly into the nose. It is discreet, relatively well-tolerated by patients, and less intrusive. The only downside is that it can sometimes cause nasal irritation.
Full-Face Masks
Full-face masks, also known as oronasal masks, cover both the nose and mouth.
A full-face mask is secured with straps around the neck and the top of the head. It delivers air to both the nose and mouth and is typically prescribed for patients with respiratory insufficiency and severe sleep apnea.
Nasal Masks
Nasal masks are less bulky than full-face masks and only cover the nose. They are well tolerated by patients who breathe through their nose. For those who breathe through their mouth, however, it can cause dryness in the mouth. Despite that, nasal masks are the most common type used in sleep apnea treatment.
Oral Masks
Oral masks are placed directly over the mouth. They are designed for patients who breathe primarily through their mouth or suffer from mouth leaks. These masks are less intrusive and generally well tolerated, especially among individuals allergic to silicone or those with claustrophobia. However, they are not suitable for people who wear dentures or mouth guards.
What Are the Side Effects of Sleep Apnea Masks?
While sleep apnea masks are very effective, they can cause some side effects. A large number of patients struggle with mask tolerance.
About 50% of patients using sleep apnea masks report experiencing the following side effects:
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Noise: The CPAP machine can generate noise that disturbs both the patient and their bed partner.
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Bulky equipment: The hose connecting the CPAP device to the mask can restrict movement during sleep, potentially causing nighttime awakenings, particularly in the early stages of treatment.
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Facial marks: Masks can leave marks on the face, especially if poorly adjusted.
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Dryness: Wearing the mask can dry out the mouth and nose.
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Irritations: Some patients experience nasal or eye irritation.
How Is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) Treatment Adapted?
To make the mask a true ally for better sleep, it is crucial to have a well-fitting, properly adjusted mask.
An appropriate mask greatly increases the chances of successful treatment.
Choosing the right mask must consider several factors: comfort, the prescribed therapy, the individual's unique facial structure, the product’s durability, and ease of use.
For effectiveness, the mask must match the prescribed CPAP treatment.
Each patient's airway requires a specific pressure level to stay open and prevent apneas.
The type of mask recommended depends on the required pressure level. Whether you breathe through your nose or mouth and other factors will determine the best mask choice.
The mask must fit the shape of your face: the size of your nose, the presence of facial hair, and the height of your cheekbones are important to ensure comfort.
Lifestyle and sleeping habits are also essential factors:
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What is your usual sleeping position?
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Do you fall asleep while wearing glasses?
These details matter.
Some brands offer masks adapted to specific habits, so discussing options with your doctor is important.
FAQs
How does a sleep apnea mask work?
The CPAP machine is designed to keep the patient's airways open. It compresses ambient air and delivers it under pressure through a hose connected to the mask.
Can sleep apnea go away?
Yes, it is possible to recover from sleep apnea. Sleep Apnea Syndrome (SAS) is not inevitable. Contrary to common belief, it can be treated, allowing a return to a normal and restful night’s sleep.
What are the possible side effects of a sleep apnea mask?
This treatment can cause side effects such as facial irritation from the mask, dryness of the nose and mouth, rhinitis, and digestive discomfort.
What is a disadvantage of a CPAP machine?
One common side effect is dry mouth. Pressurized air delivered into the nose can sometimes make exhaling difficult, leading the patient to unconsciously exhale through the mouth.
Conclusion
As you can see, wearing a sleep apnea mask is an effective solution, although it can sometimes be challenging.
If you suspect that you suffer from sleep apnea, it is crucial to consult a doctor, who will guide you toward the treatment best suited for your situation.
If your breathing difficulty is mild and your partner is disturbed by your snoring, you might consider the Back2Sleep intranasal device. Feel free to contact the company for more information about this device, which helps combat the early symptoms of sleep apnea as well as snoring.
However, even for such a device, prior consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.
