CPAP Masks for Side Sleepers

I am sure you must have heard about PAP, Positive Airway Pressure ventilation methods used against breathing problems. These masks have been used over and over in hospitals for patients suffering from sleep apnea, acute type 1 and 2 respiratory failures, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and in some cases, hypoxia and community acquired pneumonia. CPAP, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure was first discovered by Professor Colin Sullivan at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, Australia. Since then CPAP masks have been a popular health machine.

CPAP therapies are generally designed to facilitate oxygen delivery and improve the ability of the lungs to exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide under intensive care. More often, babies facing breathing problems immediately after birth are ventilated with CPAP masks. The 2 prerequisite components of all CPAP masks is the electronic device with the oxygen tubing/hose and the mask. Nasal, full face, nasal pillow, nasal prong, hybrid, oral and total face are the varied styles. However, people generally prefer nasal pillows since these can be worn comfortably without any red marks on the face at night while sleeping. Now, when it comes to using or trusting these, the most important aspect involved is the comfort they can provide.

If you happen to see the reviews, although being useful, the major side effect is the discomfort they cause while sleeping. Statistics suggest that majority people are side sleepers (50%) and they find it difficult to deal with CPAP masks. Normally, we are used to breathing with mouth and nose, open; however CPAP masks do not allow free movement of air, making exhaling air very unpleasant. Apart from this, some other problems include headache, irritation, dry mouth and throat, swelling in abdomen, sneezing, irritation, runny nose, and nose bleeding.

As CPAP masks are generally meant for breathing betterment, they should always be sealed properly. Side sleeping can cause the mask to break open the seal leading to discomfort. If you happen to check, there are many companies manufacturing masks to solve this problem. These masks are generally low profile masks like nasal pillows (ComfortLite 2) which lessen the contact of the mask with your pillow facilitating comfort. However, the usage depends totally on an individual. A better option is the use of SleepWeaver Advanced CPAP Masks since these are made from cloth (not plastic) and hence flexible in changing the shape according to your sleeping position. The best CPAP mask for side sleepers till date is the Ultra CPAP Pillow. This pillow has been specifically designed for side sleepers wherein the mask fits in properly. A Hose Lift can also be used to prevent tangling with the tube while sleeping.

A CPAP mask can be quite troublesome in the beginning but it's just the matter of getting used to it. Your doctor will suggest the best one, but see to it that the one you are using is a good quality effective mask.