Need help using a cpap. I have tried 3 different masks still have problems. With one air came out my mouth, then tried two different full face masks. When I start to go to sleep my mouth blows up and the mask starts to leak.

This is what I can quickly find for troubleshooting:

CPAP Troubleshooting Guide (http://www.sleepapnea.org/resources/pubs/cpaptable.htm)

My next question would be: Does yours assist breathing in, or in and out?

I've never seen a mask nor CPAP machine but have worn a respirator, the technique to determine the properfit may apply.

At least with a respirator, you block the intake and try to breathe in. If there is resistance then that way is OK.

You can also block the exhale port and try to breathe out. There should be resistance.

You want the mask comfortable, but not tight.

Respiratory fit testing is done with an oil that smells. Facial hair, for instance, is a no no. Is that a factor in your case?

I am new to all of this, but as I understand it the machine keeps a constant air pressure. The inhale is easer than exhale. Settings can be made to increase or decrease the number according to ones need for sleep apnea. I shave daily.

This website might be worthwhile to look at. Note the APAP machines.

CPAP.com Newsletter Archive of CPAP Mask and Machine News - The Difference Between APAPs and CPAPs (http://www.cpap.com/DisplayNewsletter/97)

Are you not working with a sleep center and a resp therepist ?

In the center I used to work at, they had you normally sleep over night after and compare with the mask,

They use face size to measure and fit,

There are various sizes of most types

Does yours assist breathing in, or in and out?


CPAP does both. CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure... so the assist is continuous... both in and out.

If the air is coming out of your mouth, you don't have a tight enough fit. If your mouth blows up and the mask leaks, this signifies that the placement is too tight.

There are various sizes as well as different fits. You need to contact your provider to make sure this mask fits you and that you have proper placement.

You need to work with the company that provided this for you.

My Doctor ordered the need for equipment and a medical company brought it out. Out of three masks I picked one out, because one of my brothers had good results with that model. It only pluged into your nostrals. With that one, when I started to doze off the air came out my mouth. Then I got a full face mask and this is when the mouth blowing up in the mask started. Tried a second full face mask, same results. I have tried loose straping all the way to very tight. I am going to call them and have them come and get it out of here.. I only went on the net because I thought someone out there may have had the same problem.

The link in #4 had a forum for just CPAP users. I would suggest you ask there.

You NEED to contact the company that brought it out. Their people should have, if they didn't, train you in the proper use of the equipment. As I said above, and I am currently training in positive pressure airways, the problems you are having are most likely cause by improper fit.