The most recent data suggests that there are in the neighborhood of 8 – 10 million CPAP users in the U.S. The numbers of individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea continues to rise. CPAP machines and the masks that partner with them have become in intrical part in helping to better the lives of millions.
In a perfect world, CPAP devices would not be necessary, but due to the ever changing world we live in where diet, environmental conditions and various other factors at play, having a comfortable CPAP mask to go along with a CPAP machine is in many cases a necessity.
What causes obstructive sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea is most commonly due to excess weight and obesity. When a person is in deep sleep and the throat and tongue muscles relax, the excess soft tissue can cause the airway to be blocked. However, one does not necessarily have to be overweight to suffer from this disorder.
Sleep apnea can also be caused by obstructions in the sinus cavity preventing a person from being able to breath freely at night. Blockage anywhere in the sinus cavity can increase the probability of lack of proper airflow.
Potential dangers of Sleep Apnea:
Individuals who have seasonal allergies who also suffer from sinus blockage can become more susceptible to sinus infections, thus increasing sinus blockage even more. The sensation of being `pillowed’ at night can be unsettling and equally as dangerous if a person ceases to breath for 20-30 seconds at a time.
Lack of oxygen going to the brain has been discussed and researched in medical circles as a potential cause to the onset of dementia.
Performance degradation:
It goes without saying that continuous inability to get a good night’s rest leads to exhaustion and fatigue which effects an individual’s ability to function at a high-level during the day.
Decision making capability can be significantly compromised.
What makes a good CPAP mask?
The best CPAP mask is not only comfortable, but is HIGHLY adjustable. Having a mask that does not fit properly can not only lead to a good degree of discomfort, but can also lead to air leaks and even compressing the soft tissue of your sinus walls thus cutting off air flow.
Another aspect of a good CPAP mask is one that allows you to take it off in a hurry when the situation comes about. Older masks did not allow you to remove the apparatus as quickly and in some cases caused the wearer to yank the tubing connected to the CPAP machine thus pulling the machine off the nightstand. This of course could lead to a very expensive replacement.
Let’s take a look at what we would consider to be two of the best Full-Face CPAP masks available.
The ResMed AirFit F20 boasts a modular design that allows it to fit nearly anyone’s face. The masks is secured to the patients face via soft semi-flexible headgear with velcro and magnet attachment ends. There are essentially 4 parts to the mask: 1 the headgear, 2 cushion, 3 pull away unit, and mask elbow.
There are two types of cushions that you can get for the AirFit F20. You can either opt for the silicon or the foam version. There are pros and cons to choosing either. The upside to choosing a foam cushion for the AirFit F20 is that it is softer and contours to the face a little better.
To clean the foam cushion, you are instructed to simply wipe it down. The problem is that over time the oils, & dead skin cells will be working their way into the pores of the foam. This is unsanitary in our opinion. This coupled with the fact you are instructed not to get the foam wet.
The silicon cushion is the other option and the one we generally would recommend. It may not be quite as comfortable as the foam version, but you are able to clean it with light detergent and warm water. It also features ResMed’s `Infinity Seal’ cushion technology that features a dual wall cushion. Once you have cleaned it you can then have the added protection of then putting it in a UV Sanitizer Box for 99.9% sanitization. To view our UV Sanitizer Box, follow the tag at the bottom of this article.
Additional AirFit F20 feature:
The AirFit F20 also features a `Quite Air’ vent technology at the elbow portion of the mask that ResMed claims makes it 89% quieter and 70% gentler than before.
Pros:
• Light weight Modular Design.
• Highly adjustable Velcro head straps.
• Quick release magnetic jaw straps. Great for emergencies!
• Easy to clean if you if you opt for the silicon cushion.
Cons:
• Not quite as adjustable as the Mirage Quattro.
• If you elected to get the AirFit F20 foam cushion it may be comfortable but it can’t be cleaned with soap and water.
Click below to purchase the ResMed AirFit F20:
The ResMed Quattro is an older model full face CPAP mask but is still extremely highly regarded amongst users. So why are we comparing this older model Full face mask to the current AirFit F20 from ResMed? Simply put, this mask is excellent at eliminating air leaks and making sure your mask is solidly flush to the face.
An air leak in a CPAP mask can be one of the most annoying things ever. Chances are if you are wearing a CPAP you are already dealing with multiple health issues and having air leak from the cushion of your mask can not only negate the effectiveness of your therapy but can additionally add to mental stress.
Enter the Mirage Quattro. This is an oldie but goodie. Key feature of this mask is the adjustable dial at the top portion of the unit. This dial can be turned to the right and to the left which will adjust tension on the forehead to increase the cushion snugness or decrease it.
In addition, the ResMed Mirage Quattro is also very comfortable however the headgear does not have as quick a release capability as the AirFit F20.
The Mirage Quattro can also be cleaned with a couple of drops of light detergent and water and is relatively easy to full disassemble and clean.
Pros:
• Excellent fitment for the user. Highly adjustable Velcro straps.
• More reliable forehead dial that allows for incremental adjustment of mask to prevent air leaks.
• Can be cleaned with simple light detergent and water.
Cons:
• Mask is a little bulky. Not as light weight as the AirFit F20.
• Slightly slower to disassemble for cleaning.
• Because this model is older, replacement parts can be harder to come by. Your best bet it through affiliate resellers / suppliers.
Click below to purchase the ResMed Mirage Quattro:
Our Recommendation:
Both of these masks are very good, but we would recommend getting the AirFit F20 simply because it is lighter weight and is slightly easier to disassemble. Also, replacement parts will be easier to come by. However, it should be said that the Mirage Quattro makes an excellent back up mask and could be considered a luxury.
Side Note:
Both of the Full-face masks here were tested with the ResMed AirSense 10 CPAP machine. They are both fully compatible with this machine. They are also compatible with other machines but you will want to ask your CPAP supplier or physician to make sure they are compatible with whichever machine you choose to use.
