News

CPAP Full Face Masks vs. Nasal Masks

How do you know what type of CPAP mask would best fit your needs while treating your obstructive sleep apnea? At My CPAP Club, we offer two types of masks for CPAP therapy, including:

  • Nasal masks. If you are looking for a CPAP mask that covers just your nose, that is easy to wear and maintain, and has versatility and a minimal design, this might be the mask that you need to treat your obstructive sleep apnea. This option is ideal for individuals who may feel claustrophobic with a full face mask on at night, but it may leak if not fitted properly.
  • Full face masks. This type of CPAP mask covers both your nose and mouth and is known to prevent mouth leaks. Full face masks offer peace of mind while you sleep at night and deal with your obstructive sleep apnea. However, if you have claustrophobic tendencies, this may not be the best option for you.

  • Getting the Most Out of Your CPAP Full Face Mask or Nasal Mask

    Full Face Masks vs. Nasal MasksUsing the right mask is essential to the success of your treatment. You need a mask that is comfortable and fits properly. It should form a good seal on your face so that air doesn't leak (this would be uncomfortable and make your therapy less effective). A nasal mask that covers the nose is the most common choice among individuals suffering from obstructive sleep apnea.

    However, some people breathe through their mouth when they sleep. In this case, a full face mask that covers both the nose and mouth is the best option. 
Another option would be a nasal mask and chinstrap, which will prevent the jaw from opening during sleep and still provide you with effective CPAP therapy.

    If you are still unsure of what CPAP mask is the right option for you, contact My CPAP Club today at 1-888-272-7050. We would be happy to explain our different mask types and answer any questions you may have.

    CPAP Travel Tips from My CPAP Club

    Maintaining a nightly schedule with your CPAP machine and mask is sometimes difficult. So, what if you add to that the fact that you travel a lot? My CPAP Club is here to give you some tips about CPAP travel and how you can make treating your obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) on-the-go as easy as possible.

    Flying with Your CPAP MachineIt is important to remember that if you suffer from OSA, every time you sleep, your airway is obstructed and your oxygen drops, while your heart, brain, lungs and other bodily systems are strained. This is why we recommend you continue your CPAP therapy whenever – and wherever – you sleep, even if you are just going out of town for one or two days.

    Flying with Your CPAP Machine & Mask

    Here are some tips for flying on an airplane with your CPAP mask or machine:

    • Don’t check your CPAP machine, because it can easily get broken. Rather, take it with you on the plane; it will not be counted as one of your “carry-on” bags. It is also a good idea to put a copy of your prescription in your CPAP bag, so it's always handy if you need it.
    • Call your airline ahead of time to find out if they have any instructions or special procedures for bringing your CPAP machine on the plane with you and for getting through security.
    • Most airlines do not allow passengers to use their CPAP devices during flights. If you need to make special arrangements, call your airline ahead of time.

    Driving or Camping with Your CPAP Machine & Mask

    If you are planning a camping trip or spending a lot of time on the road, we recommend following these tips for dealing with your CPAP machine:

    • If your machine has the ability to run off of 12V (check your owner's manual), then you will be able to run your machine off of a battery or by plugging it into the cigarette lighter adapter in your car / RV if you purchase the proper cables.
    • We sell battery adapter cables for those who wish to bring their CPAP machine with them while camping in the wilderness. You’ll find these in our online store.
    • A 12V deep cycle marine battery or a motorcycle battery are recommended for the longest life between charges. The life span of the battery depends on its rating and what your pressure setting is on your machine.
    Worried about how travel will affect your CPAP machine routine? Contact My CPAP Club today at 1-888-272-7050 for more tips on CPAP travel.

    What Type of Mask Do I Need for My Sleep Apnea?

    If your doctor has determined that you have sleep apnea, then he or she probably recommended continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) as a possible treatment. Perhaps you’ve tried CPAP before and found the mask too uncomfortable to allow you to sleep. Not to worry, My CPAP Club is here to provide the information you need, so that you can get back to sleeping soundly the whole night through.

    Finding the Mask that Fits You

    When it comes to selecting the right mask, you have three main categories to choose from: nasal mask, full face mask and nasal pillow mask. Within these categories, there are additional modifications and features to provide even more comfort. The first step, however, is deciding which category of mask is the best fit for you — not just size, but sleeping and breathing style, as well.

    Nasal Mask

    If you breathe through your nose while sleeping, then a nasal mask could be the best option for you. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that a nasal mask can be less effective when you are experiencing allergies or nasal blockage due to a cold. If you are prone to allergies and other sinus-related issues, you might want to consider a full face mask.

    A nasal mask is triangular in shape, designed to form a seal around your nose. The mask is held in place by two straps that connect at four different points to provide a secure and snug fit.

    Full Face Mask

    Do you generally breathe through your mouth when asleep? If so, a full face mask is the one for you. This mask is also the best option for people who commonly suffer from allergies, sinus infections or other nasal blockages. By fitting around both your nose and mouth, a full face mask provides the most efficient and effective sleep apnea therapy by preventing mouth leaks and ensuring regulated pressure throughout the night. 


    Full face masks are also triangular in shape, but cover both the mouth and nose. To ensure a secure fit, the mask is held in place by four point headgear, one strap wrapping around the forehead and the other around the jaw and base of the head. The addition of a chin strap prevents the jaw from opening during sleep, which further improves the effectiveness of your CPAP machine.

    Nasal Pillow Mask

    For users with facial hair or those who simply don’t like the feeling of so much gear on their face, a nasal pillow mask offers minimal contact points on the face. It also provides a clear line of vision, so that you can read a book or watch television before bed. Keep in mind that this mask only works for people who breathe through their nose.

    A nasal pillow mask seals at the bottom of your nostrils, with a flexible pillow to provide comfort. A single, thin strap connects at two points and adjusts at the back of your bed, running just over the top of your ears.

    The Importance of Selecting the Right Mask

    Using the right mask is essential to the success of your treatment. You will need a mask that is comfortable and fits properly. If it’s uncomfortable, you’ll be less inclined to use it. And if it the fit isn’t snug and secure, air could leak out, making your therapy less effective.

    Remember that good sleep is necessary to functioning at your most productive level. If you don’t find the right mask on your first try, don’t be discouraged. Contact My CPAP Club to learn more about CPAP masks and which one might be the best fit for you.