Improving Your CPAP Therapy

When choosing a CPAP mask that’s right for you, the size is the most important factor. The wrong size could lead to discomfort and side effects including aerophagia, red marks, skin irritation and mask leaks.

Many CPAP masks come in different sizes; when ordering one of our masks, you can find your size easily – by scrolling down to the ‘downloads’ tab and printing off the sizing guide – so you get the best fit possible.

All masks manufacturers offer simple to follow mask fitting guidance to help you get comfortable, just like the one below.

Risk-Free Masks

There is the option of choosing a risk-free CPAP mask which we guarantee a comfortable fit. You can try the mask for 28 days and if its not right, you can return your mask for a refund.

CPAP Mask FitPacks

We also offer mask FitPacks; these masks come with multiple cushion sizes, so you won’t need to measure your face. Simply try each cushion size to find the best fit at home.

Mask Fit Insurance

With most of our CPAP masks we offer the option of adding our unique Mask-Fit Insurance. The insurance allows you to try your new mask for 28 days; if you do not find it comfortable, you may return it.

Intus Healthcare Advice

Practice wearing your mask throughout the day to get used to the feel gradually. It can take up to a month to get used to new mask.

CPAP masks are designed to have small intentional exhaust leaks so that you exhale CO2; this doesn’t affect your therapy compliance.

If your CPAP mask previously sealed well and is now starting to leak, then the cushion may be reaching the end of its life. Through use, the silicone used in most CPAP masks loses strength and becomes sloppier and, therefore, less able to maintain a seal.

Tightening the headgear can offset this to a degree, but eventually, this will not be sufficient. Replacing the cushion should solve that problem, though if the cushion alone is not replaceable, then a new CPAP mask would be required.

If the mask is new and, even after following fitting guides and videos but are still finding the mask leaks, then it may be the wrong size. Leaks into the eyes are particularly suggestive of the CPAP mask is too big, either in height or width. A smaller size may solve the problem.

If the mask initially seals well but gets dislodged by your pillow when you change position, you can consider a CPAP pillow. These feature cut-outs are designed for your CPAP mask to fall into when you sleep on your side, stopping the mask from dislodging.

The average life span of a CPAP mask is around 6 to 12 months; sometimes, this can be longer and sometimes shorter. The life depends on a number of factors; how long its been used, how it is washed (and how often), the wearer’s skin oils and sweat levels and other factors.

Over time the cushion on the mask will wear out, much like if you were to wear the same shoes every day. When this happens, its ability to maintain a good seal reduces.

We recommend replacing your CPAP mask parts (headgear, cushion, clips and frame) as soon as they begin to start showing some wear and tear. As this ultimately will affect the comfort of your mask.

If you have had your mask for a while, you can read your data card in your machine or look at CPAP app readings. In doing this, you can find out if you are experiencing many leaks; an older worn mask that needs replacing will cause a higher leak rate.