Sleep Apnea Headgear
Sleep apnea headgear
The positioning of the sleep apnea machine to the face and the head is done by means of a device that needs to be comfortable for the user. A sleep apnea headgear usually includes two T-shaped parts one for the front and the other other for the rear side of the head. Furthermore, there is a special strap that is attached to the chin that is responsible for keeping the mask in the right position. Sleep apnea headgear is used for both CPAP and BiPAP machines that depend on masks to send the pressurized air flow to the lungs; moreover, the materials this headgear is made of varies from model to model with the mention that the patient's comfort is the most important for the matter.
If the straps of the sleep apnea headgear are too tight, there are high chances that you be left with more or less superficial red marks. Though the adjusting of the mask is essential so as to prevent air leaks, you need to be careful not to get your neck, chin or ears irritated. Manufacturers have also come up with a solution for the situation: the use of the so-called “strap guard” that may be ordered together with any CPAP sleep apnea headgear for a more than acceptable price. This type of strap has a special cushioning design that allows the user to sleep comfortably and safe.
The most advanced CPAP models include designs that have no sleep apnea headgear at all; they are attached directly to the nostrils by means of tubes and they allow the patient to assume a variety of sleeping positions without the slightest discomfort. Nevertheless, devices that do not rely on sleep apnea headgear are definitely a lot more expensive; you can have a look at the many strapless models available online and see how you feel about the prices.
As troublesome as it may seem, many patients do try several models of sleep apnea headgear before finally finding the one that really suits their needs. The most common complaint associated with CPAP headgear is that the marks it leaves on the face do not disappear throughout the day, particularly if you strap the device tightly. Hence, talk to the doctor and ask for his or her personal advice concerning the shape and the design that would suit you best. Besides correctly fitting on you face, you should also be able to feel comfortable throughout the night and enjoy a proper rest.