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    1. Patients
    2. Articles For Patients
    3. Mask comfort and fitting tips

    Mask comfort and fitting tips

    • By Philips
    • 3 min read

    A mask that fits properly is crucial to keeping you committed and comfortable. Here are some tips to follow1,2:

    A couple asleep in bed. One is wearing a CPAP mask.

    1. Use the smallest size mask that fits without pinching.

    2. Headgear should be secure but not too tight as a tight fit is not necessary. If you have leaks and your mask has a forehead arm or adjustment feature, adjust them first. Next, try loosening the headgear if leaks continue.

    3. If leaks persist after adjusting the headgear, gently pull the cushion away from your face and let is settle naturally back in place.

    4. The cushion should not be crushed against your face. If it is, your headgear is too tight.

    5. Don’t block the exhalation port between the mask and the connecting tubing. Position the port away from your bed partner.

    6. The mask should be fitted while you are in a sleeping position and with air blowing at the prescribed pressure.

    7. Mark the headgear straps with permanent marker to remember where they should be fastened.

    8. Remove the mask by gently gripping the frame and pulling it over your head or use the quick-release clip(s). If your mask has an attached short tube, to prevent damage to the mask and tube, do not pull the mask off by the short tube.

    9. Consider looping the tubing over the headboard to reduce the pull on the mask.

    10. If your mask was fitted with your dentures in, your mask may not fit properly without them.

    Return to the health hub
    References
    1. BaHammam AS, Singh T, George S, Acosta KL, Barataman K, Gacuan DE. Choosing the right interface for positive airway pressure therapy in patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Sleep and Breathing. 2017;21(3):569-575. doi:10.1007/s11325-017-1490-9
    2. Brill AK. How to avoid interface problems in acute noninvasive ventilation. Breathe. 2014;10:231-242. doi:10.1183/20734735.003414