Sleep apnea is a common breathing disorder that affects millions of Americans. The best treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure therapy, or CPAP. It provides enough pressure to blow the airway open and keep the muscles from collapsing. CPAP treatment requires the use of a mask, and many CPAP users think that they have to sleep on their backs to accommodate the mask. 

However, for those who do not prefer to sleep on their backs, it is not required of them. There are other options that allow sleepers to sleep in the positions that best suit them. It's important to follow the advice of your doctor or sleep specialist when choosing the best CPAP mask. Selecting the correct mask is a task of trial and error, and your doctor can help you find the best option for your preferred sleeping position. Continue reading to learn more before you go and speak with your physician.     

Choosing the Right Mask Based on Your Sleeping Position

There are three different CPAP mask designs, full-face, nasal, and nasal pillow masks. Full-face masks are the most bulky of the three, and cover both the nose and the mouth. Nasal masks only cover the nose and pillow masks are the least obstructive. However, they only cover the nostrils and don't have a hard shell. 

CPAP masks require tightness in order to avoid air leaks. Sleeping in a way that presses on the mask can cause issues with the effectiveness of treatment. The CPAP headgear can also cause issues with comfort during sleep. When you're choosing a CPAP mask, you should consider both the overall size and shape of the mask, and where the headgear rests against your face. The goal is to find an effective mask that is still comfortable for you to sleep in.

Side Sleepers 

Sleeping on one's side is the best for CPAP users because it stops gravity from impacting the airway. However, it can be a struggle for side sleepers to find a CPAP mask that is suitable. 

Nasal pillow masks are a suitable option for side sleepers. It is the low profile of the mask that typically rests higher than the pillow and the mask can remain sealed if the sleeper turns their face against the pillow. 

Nasal masks are another option which effective seals that are soft, headgear that is adjustable and can prevent air leaks, but side sleepers still require a CPAP-friendly pillow to go along with their masks. 

Back Sleepers

CPAP users who sleep on their backs have a wide range of choice in mask styles. Because the position accommodates full-face masks without difficulty, sleeping on your back may be the best. However, this position also makes it more likely for gravity to work on muscles and collapse the airway. 

Your physician most likely will encourage you to chain positions, but if not, then any position will do best. This position also makes it more difficult to move your mask off your face throughout the night, but some back sleepers may struggle with the single-strap headgear. 

Stomach Sleepers 

Stomach sleepers are the least common, and people who are stomach sleepers have unique concerns. This position can cause the mask to push into the face, which is very uncomfortable and causes frequent air leaks. This may also force your neck into a strained position which places stress on the neck and can cause next-day pain and stiffness. 

The best mask for this is a nasal pillow mask. They are unlikely to become dislodged or cause pain regardless of the sleeping position. People who use this mask should ensure that their actual pillow accommodates the mask. Some masks also have a tube that is positioned along the temples which can cause air restriction if compressed by a firm pillow. 

What is a CPAP Pillow, and How it Works 

Not all CPAP users have access to all the different types. Your chosen mask type must follow the advice of your sleep specialist, as they know best. A CPAP pillow may offer a solution which is a pillow fit to accomodate a mask better than a traditional pillow. 

Where to Purchase CPAP Masks

CPAP masks require a prescription from a physician. However, there are other options for where to buy your CPAP masks. Online retailers must require a prescription, but you can send them through fax or upload them online. When your prescription is confirmed, you will be able to make your purchase. 

Online retailers have a wider selection of CPAP machines to choose from. Sleep clinics and specialists may also have access to various designs, but may have higher prices. Purchasing them through your sleep specialist, however, may provide your physician with a better way to track your sleeping habits. 

If your mask is uncomfortable or not improving your symptoms, then please click the orange button below to take a free online sleep test and talk with one of our sleep health professionals. 

Source: 

https://www.sleepfoundation.org/cpap/choosing-cpap-mask-for-your-sleep-position