It’s true that in today’s market there are literally dozens of masks available to the CPAP user. But this doesn’t mean that the choosing a mask needs to be difficult. Let’s look at some different types of masks and their features, uses, and pros and cons:

Part 2: FULL FACE CPAP MASKS

Patient sleeping using a Full Face style mask.

Full Face Masks (FFM), or oral/nasal masks, are larger than nasal masks but operate in a similar manner. These masks extend below the bottom lip to create seal that encompasses the user’s mouth as well as the nose. These masks are used when a person demonstrates a “mouth leak” when asleep. A mouth leak occurs when the jaw relaxes and air escapes through the mouth. Mouth leaks can also happen when the therapy pressure is high enough to force the mouth open even when wearing a chinstrap. If the pressure is escaping through the mouth, the CPAP can’t do its job and keep the airway open. The full-face style masks allow a user to breathe through either their nose or mouth without worrying about loosing pressure. Because of the larger surface area the FFM cushion must cover, these masks can sometimes have trouble sealing well. Fortunately, new designs and seals have been created to counteract these problems.

Here are some examples of Full Face CPAP Masks:

The ComfortGel Full FFM from Philips Respironics feature soft gel cushioning like the nasal ComfortGel Blue but works stops mouth leaks as well.

The Forma FFM by Fisher & Paykel offers a soft foam cushion and silicone seal that extends below the user’s chin to keep the mouth leaks in check.

ResMed’s Mirage Quattro FFM features a double walled silicone interface to ensure a complete seal.

General Pros And Cons of Full Face CPAP Masks:

Pros:

• Allows patients to breathe through nose or mouth
• Corrects mouth leak without need for chinstrap
• Available in a variety of sizes and cushions like the nasal masks
• Works well even at higher pressures
• Disperses pressure over a larger surface area, reducing sensation of high pressure

Cons:

• Larger surface area to seal can lead to mask leaks
• Larger mask size may look intimidating to new/claustrophobic users
• Generally louder than other masks
• Line of sight often obscured by forehead connection

If you’re in the Portland, OR area swing by our DME office where you can find these and many more masks. Or if you’re not in the Northwest check out the deals at BuyPAP.com. Also check out our facebook page and follow us on twitter for more updates.

Police officers have a difficult and sometimes dangerous job. The public relies upon police forces to protect our lives, solve crimes, and be role models for our communities. But unfortunately, there is one threat to cops’ safety that can’t be locked up. 

A new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association involving 4,957 municipal, state, county and other law enforcement officers across North America revealed that 40 percent of participants screened positive for a sleep disorder and most were undiagnosed and untreated. The most common sleep disorder found was Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Moderate to severe insomnia affected 6.5 percent, and 28.5 percent of police officers showed excessive sleepiness.

These numbers are especially alarming considering the sensitive nature of police work and the long hours spent behind the wheel. “Sleep disorders expose individuals to increased sleepiness, which elevates the risk of motor vehicle crashes.  We found that excessive sleepiness is common in police officers and that almost half report having fallen asleep while driving and about 25 percent report that it occurs at least monthly,” said Shantha Rajaratnam, PhD, co-lead author of the research paper. “Positive screening for a sleep disorder increased the risk of falling asleep while driving after work, depression and burnout by more than two-fold.”

But the results of the study yielded some optimistic insights as well. Massachusetts State Police (MSP) were found to have a  significantly lower risk for OSA than the municipal or nationwide police officers, who were nearly 60 to 80 percent more likely to screen positive for OSA. The researchers hypothesize that the comprehensive on-the-job physical fitness program implemented years ago by the MSP may account for the lower rates of both OSA and obesity (a major risk factor for OSA) observed among this group. Recognition and identification of sleep disorders as health risks can help other departments across the country to develop similar programs and keep our civil servants safe.

The Philips Respironics ComfortGel Blue mask is one of the most popular CPAP nasal masks on the market today.  The ComfortGel Blue is a redesign of the original Respironics Comfort Gel mask, which for many people is the perfect answer to uncomfortable and hard CPAP masks.

Highlights:

• The ComfortGel Blue has the same dual cushion technology as the original ComfortGel but a new gel material has been added that contours to the face better than the original Comfort Gel. The beauty of this cushion is that the user can tighten the mask down to reduce leaks but not wake up with pain or marks on their face.

The pliable blue gel create a comfortable cushion while the silicone flap seals against leaks.

• Philips also changed the forehead pad on the Gel Blue to a softer, more forgiving material thus preventing some of the skin irritation patients ran into the original Comfort Gel.
• The exhalation ports were also redesigned to redirected exhalation airflow away from the bed partner as well as reduce noise.
• The “StabilitySelector” has been retained on this mask as well, a great feature that allows adjustment of the angle at the bridge of the nose to fine tune the seal for each user.

• This is an especially important improvement: The frame on the ComfortGel Blue has been strengthened so there is no longer an issue of breaking the frame when removing the headgear. In the past removing the mask too forcefully could stress the “ball and cup” attachment points these reinforced cups on the frame still offer the convenience of this type of quick detachment system without worries of a late night CPAP mask crisis.
• As with the previous generation, this mask is available in Petite, Small, Medium, Large to fit users of every size.
• Along with Philips Premium Headgear the ComfortGel Blue mask continues to be one of the go to masks on the market today.

Summary:

We’ve had a lot of experience with the previous generation of ComfortGel masks both in the sleep center and with patients at home. The mask has proven itself to be one of the most reliable and consistently used masks out there. With all the new improvements Philips Respironics has made, the ComfortGel Blue is sure to be a patient favorite for years to come.

If you are in the market for a new CPAP mask or just looking for something different you can find the lowest prices on the ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask here.

Nasal CPAP Mask, notice the seal around the nose and four attachment points to the headgear.

One of the questions we often are asked at Oregon Sleep Associates is “how do I know which CPAP mask to choose?“ It’s true that in today’s market there are literally dozens of masks available to the CPAP user. But this doesn’t mean that the choosing a mask needs to be difficult. Let’s look at some different types of masks and their features, uses, and pros and cons:

Part 1: Nasal CPAP Masks

Nasal CPAP Masks are the traditional style of CPAP mask. They are generally triangular shaped to cover the user’s nose and create a seal to the face. Most connect to the headgear at four locations, 2 on the mask body and 2 on the forehead support. Nasal CPAP masks are suitable for most patients without a severe mouth leak and come with a variety of seals depending on the manufacturer and model. These seal options as well as multiple size cushions for each mask allow for a more customized experience for all users.

Here are some examples of Nasal CPAP masks:

 The ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask seals to the face using a soft blue gel, forming a comfortable interface.

The Zest from Fisher & Paykel offers a foam cushion with silicone flap to ensure a good seal.

General Pros and Cons of Nasal CPAP Masks

Pros:

• Works for most users
• Many cushion and seal types
• Low surface area to seal
• Tried and true designs

Cons:

• Possible irritation of bridge of nose
• May require more fittings to find appropriate size
• Dependent on Chin Strap to correct any mouth leaks
• Line of sight obscured by forehead connection

As always, you can find these and many more masks in our DME office, or if you’re not in the Portland OR area buy them online at BuyPAP.com. Also check out our facebook page and follow us on twitter for more updates.

The Mirage™ FX nasal mask series is a recent addition to ResMed’s venerable line up of CPAP interfaces. The design focuses on providing a lightweight and simple alternative to traditional CPAP masks.

Highlights:

• Consisting of only four parts including the headgear, the Mirage™ FX weighs in at only 2.5 ounces. This makes it one of the lightest masks on the market today.  ResMed achieved weight reduction by paring down the rigid plastic frame inherent in most nasal masks.

  

• The soft silicone cushion of the Mirage™ FX forms the body of the mask, and the 44 integrated exhalation vents have been positioned in circular pattern around the interface elbow. Having this many vents in this configuration seems to help with noise, making the Mirage™ FX one of the quietest masks we’ve encountered.
• The cushion material is soft and forgiving, which is a nice feature for those who find nasal masks to be irritating or painful to wear all night. The cushion only comes in two sizes, standard and wide, which both fit in the same frame. ResMed claims that the cushions are “one size fits all” but in our experience “one size fits most” may be more accurate. Some people with large or long noses may not find this mask to work well for them but the majority of users will be fine.

• The forehead piece seems to be more of an attachment point for the headgear rather than a stabilizing pad seen on some masks. This may help in giving the user a feeling of having less equipment anchored to their face.
• Headgear on the Mirage™ FX features ResMed’s SoftEdge™ design and is nicely cushioned at the back of the head. The headgear is attached to the frame at the standard four points with hook and loop fasteners and seems very easy and intuitive to adjust. For those wishing to look stylish in their CPAP, this mask is also available as the ResMed Mirage™ FX for Her, which comes with a smaller pink headgear.

Summary:

Overall we’ve found the Mirage™ FX from ResMed is a great option for both new and experienced CPAP users. Its lightweight and open design create a feeling of “less mask” and a more natural therapy experience. The custom options are a nice touch and ease of use makes this a great choice. If you are a patient at Oregon Sleep Associates and would like to check out the FX contact our DME or if you are not in the Portland area,  you can always find the lowest prices on the Mirage™ FX here.

Are you looking for CPAP devices, masks, and accessories? Dr Daniel Root is proud to announce the grand opening of BuyPAP.com, your new online source for PAP equipment at the lowest prices around.

BuyPAP carries devices and accessories from the industry leading manufacturers such as ResMed, Philips Respironics, and Fisher & Paykel. Whether you need a whole new machine, a new mask, or just some replacement supplies you can easily find it on our site and get it to you’re door quickly without any hassle. Rely on our staff’s 20+ years combined experience in the sleep medicine field to help guide you to a better night’s sleep. Check out BuyPAP.com here or call 1-855-NOAPNEA (1-855-662-7632).

Oregon Sleep Associates is proud to announce the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has renewed our sleep center full accreditation status for the next 5 years.

The American Academy of Sleep Medicine is the only professional society dedicated exclusively to the medical subspecialty of sleep medicine. As the leading voice in the field of sleep medicine, the AASM sets standards and promotes excellence in health care, education and research. Accreditation with the AASM is considered the gold standard of sleep medicine and reflects a commitment to ensure that sleep disorders patients receive the highest quality of care.

Since opening in 2005, Oregon Sleep Associates has helped thousands of people get a better night’s sleep by diagnosing and treating all manner of sleep disorders. We offer a five bed sleep center outfitted with comfort features including Sleep Number beds, private bathrooms, cable television and wifi to ensure your stay with us is a pleasant one. Results of overnight testing are available immediately after the sleep study in most cases. OSA also specializes in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia and can provide patients with portable home monitoring as well. Our DME office carries the latest in CPAP devices and masks from the industy leaders in PAP technology.
If you are having problems sleeping and would like help, visit us at www.oregonsleepassociates.com or contact our main office at 503-288-5201 to schedule a consultation with one of our sleep specialists.

Despite being the gold standard treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea, CPAP machines have traditionally had a fairly pedestrian clinical feel to them. Compliance to using them can be complicated, especially when first starting therapy. Some people feel embarrassed to have a device that looks like it belongs in a hospital sitting on their bedside table.

Now users of Resmed CPAPs can customize their machine to fit their personalities, decor, or hobbies. Resmed has partnered with Skinit to create custom decals for their S9 CPAP machines. Skinit also produces adhesive skins for other electronics such as iPhones, iPads, and computers. Their extensive CPAP skin library includes different colors, decorative designs, sports teams and entertainment logos, and also allows users to upload their own images to personalize their machines. Check out Resmed’s site to see all the designs.

One more example of how driving while tired can affect your safety and the lives of others:

From KATU News:

“SCAPPOOSE, OREGON- A crash on Highway 30 blacked out power to several towns along the busy highway just as rush hour hit Tuesday morning.

Reports that the power was out in Scappoose came in to KATU News just before 8 a.m. Later reports indicated that no one was hurt in the crash and that power was out from Warren to Scappoose.

Oregon State Police said a car hit a power pole near Berg Road on Highway 30 just before 7:30 a.m. and power lines were down at the scene.

The driver, identified as Pamela Somers, 57, of Rainier, fell asleep at the wheel and her car drifted across traffic lanes on Highway 30 before hitting a sign and a power pole, according to police.

The impact sent power lines down onto Berg Road. Somers suffered minor injuries and no other vehicles were involved. Somers was taken to a Longview hospital.

Electrical utility crews scrambled to get the power back on to thousands of residents. Traffic signals along Highway 30 were also knocked out, causing delays for commuters.”

If you feel tired when driving, it is vital that you pull over to take a nap. Trying to power through your fatigue does not work and can endanger the lives of everyone on the road. If you are constantly fatigued after a full night’s sleep, you may be suffering from an underlying sleep disorder. To be screened for sleep disorders contact the sleep specialists at Oregon Sleep Associates.

Communicating through language changed the course of human evolution. Connecting common thoughts and ideas fostered the growth of our civilization and culture. Now research suggests that sleep consolidation in the early years of a child’s life is integral to mastering this skill.

As reported in the journal SLEEP, a longitudinal study involving 1,029 twins from the Quebec Newborn Twin Study focused on sleep consolidation during the first two years of life. Using parental reporting, the twins’ sleep times were measured at 6, 18 and 30 months of age. Language skills were measured at 18 and 30 months with the MacArthur Communicative Development Inventory, a standardized system used to determine development of early vocabulary. At 60 months the researchers used the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test to measure language development.

Results show that the day/night sleep ratio decreased significantly from 6 to 30 months of age. Children with language delays at 60 months had less mature sleep consolidation at both 6 and 18 months than children without delays and those with transient early delays. This suggests the earlier children attain a consolidated sleep schedule, the more quickly they may develop language skills.

Providing children with an environment conducive to sleep is essential for their development. Try to encourage a regular bedtime and create a cool, quiet and comfortable sleeping area to foster uninterrupted nighttime sleep.

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s sleep, the specialists at Oregon Sleep Associates are well versed in pediatric sleep medicine. Contact them at 503-288-5201 for more information.