Anyone with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is experiencing a pervasive sleep disorder. It is a result of the blockage or obstruction of the upper airways that leads to intermittent stoppage of breathing while sleeping. It could also be a result of an intermittent stop to the breath while sleeping.

The recommended cure for the OSA condition is to undergo surgery. Still, using a CPAP mask can help the patient manage his health. The CPAP machine provides a clear pathway for air pressure and exchange. The machine comprises a CPAP mask connected with a hose pipe to the small machine pump that supplies air to the patient’s airway.

Diverse types of CPAP masks make up the machine depending on their shapes. The design may also depend on the users’ needs and preferences. This comprehensive guide discusses these types of CPAP masks and the different features that make them effective. Each CPAP mask is an integral part of the CPAP machines for sleep therapy keeping constant pressure. 

It is no gainsaying that CPAP treatment helps you breathe comfortably through full face masks as recommended by a sleep specialist. A good CPAP mask may also have a forehead support, a silicone cushion, nasal pillows, a chin strap, an adaptive frame, a hose, and other items. Below are the basic types of sleep apnea masks belonging to different categories.

Nasal Pillow Masks

The Nasal Pillow CPAP Masks are like pillows that fit right over the nasal passages and the nares. This device enables the patient to find sleep easily by making the airway free of blockage or collapse. Overall, the nasal pillow masks are very light without any obstruction. Also, it does not interfere with the line of vision of the patient who loves to watch TV or read a book.

The peculiarity of this type of CPAP mask is that it is suitable for people who feel uneasy when wearing a sleep apnea mask to cover their faces. It could also be the right option for any patient who would prefer to have a look free for wearing eyeglasses. On the other hand, the CPAP mask can work for men with facial hair, which could affect the comfort of the facial masks.

Examples of nasal pillow CPAP masks that you can choose from are the AirFit P30i. This device has a top-of-the-head tube design that is super easy to use because it aids in unobtrusive sleep. It has also been tested to show that patients can have up to 40 minutes of sleep per interval in a single night. Another option is the SwiftFX, which is exceptionally crafted for women with sleep apnea. Similar counterparts are the Swit FX for Bella and the Mirage Swift II.

CPAP Nasal Masks

Perhaps the most common of all components of CPAP therapy is the CPAP nasal masks that provide extensive coverage over the nose. This device helps to view the air supply with a higher pressure than the environment. Although it is not as accessible as the nasal pillow, it also offers a clear line of vision if you still like to read, wear glasses or watch TV.

If a doctor recommends high pressure to sleep well, then the CPAP nasal masks might be the right option to explore. In addition, it could be an excellent choice for you if there is the slightest tendency for you can move around during sleep. Therefore, it helps the patient hold the nasal mask and have a sound sleep.

Depending on the level of comfort the patient requires, some options to consider in this category include the AirFit N30. This option has a curved nasal cradle cushion to support the nose from under. As for the AirFit 30i, it has a top-of-the-head tube with a nasal cradle. As a result, the patient can choose any position and still have a night of uninterrupted sleep.

The AirFitN20 comes with an extra layer of comfort and visual freedom for the patient’s line of vision. Moreover, other options include the Mirage series of nasal masks, which are light with compact designs and soft headgear. Examples include the Mirage FX, Mirage Activa LT, Mirage FX for Her, Ultra Mirage II Nasal Mask, Mirage Micro, and Mirage Vista.

CPAP Full Face Masks

Another type of the CPAP mask that is worth mentioning is the CPAP full-face mask. This device is unique because it covers the nose and the mouth to supply the air pressure required for sleep. As a result of the design, the CPAP mask is efficient for people who breathe through their mouths during sleep.

When the patient experiences any nasal congestion or obstruction, nasal masks such as this can become very handle to remedy the situation and clear the airway. In addition, it could also help patients who have struggled with using CPAP masks and pillows that enable breathing through the nose. Finally, this option adds the mouth as an extra channel for breath control.

Some of the options in this category include the AirFit F30, which has a small CPAP mask and covers fewer face areas. In addition, the AirTouch F20 has easy-to-use features in the nasal mask and is suitable for all face shapes. They are also available in different sizes according to the patient’s needs. Another option is the Quattro series, which features Quattro Air, the lightest face mask on the market.

Meanwhile, the Quattro Air for Her is designed for women. Also, the Quattro FX is a traditional full-face mask allowing a clear line of vision for the patient who likes to read or watch TV. Another unique feature of the Quattro MicroFit dial is that it has up to 24 positions supporting the patient’s forehead. These options make the CPAP mask suitable for different facial structures.

Pediatric CPAP masks

The last type of CPAP mask in our classification is those meant for children. The name pediatric CPAP masks already suggest that this device is intended to manage obstructive sleep apnea in children. The first option to pick from this category is the Mirage Kidsta, which helps children with difficulty breathing while asleep. A similar alternative is the Pixi.

Conclusion

Finally, the CPAP mask is integral to CPAP therapy and can help patients recover from OSA disorder. However, before a diagnosed patient can choose any of the CPAP masks above, it is essential to understand the peculiarities of these masks. At the same time, he needs the professional advice of a CPAP therapist or a sleep coach who will guide him on the application. Ultimately, the quality and comfort of the sleep with the CPAP masks make an effort worth it.