Nasal CPAP Mask Overview
Nasal CPAP masks seal around your nose in the shape of a triangle and are held in place by a four point headgear. They do not seal over your mouth. Nasal CPAP masks are the original type of CPAP mask and remain the most popular. They come in silicone, gel, or cloth styles. Avoid low end nasal CPAP masks as the comfort gap between high and low quality nasal CPAP masks is large.
Shop NowNasal FAQs
- Why might I prefer a nasal mask?
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The ideal CPAP mask is not noticeable to the user during CPAP therapy. If you breathe through your nose only, the nasal mask may offer the best therapy. Nasal cushions create a very good seal around your nose, while keeping a small profile. Also, nasal masks can be found in silicone, gel, foam, or cloth material. The SleepWeaver masks are the only cloth masks on the market, and are a very popular choice among nasal mask users. Lastly, most nasal masks have a forehead support which offers stability and support for the mask.
- I sleep on my side or stomach, what are my options?
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Sleeping on your side or stomach is preferable to sleeping on your back because sleeping on your back worsens all forms of sleep-disordered breathing. However, sleeping on your side or stomach can present problems with CPAP therapy. Both positions can put pressure on one side of your mask increasing your leak rate. Your options are to (1) try a mask that other side sleepers like (2) try bed pillows made for CPAP users.
- Masks: In our experience, some masks allow for movement in different sleeping positions better than others. See our recommended masks for Active or Side/Stomach Sleepers.
- Special CPAP Pillows: Regular bed pillows can put pressure against the mask and cause leaks. CPAP pillows are made with CPAP users in mind. These special pillows are designed to minimize the contact of the CPAP mask with the pillow, even when you are sleeping on your side.
- Masks: In our experience, some masks allow for movement in different sleeping positions better than others. See our recommended masks for Active or Side/Stomach Sleepers.
Nasal Video
More Videos
- Chinstraps for CPAP Masks Introduction
- Respironics EasyLife Nasal CPAP Mask Initial Adjustments
- Respironics EasyLife CPAP Nasal Mask Leak Guide
- Respironics EasyLife CPAP Nasal Mask Cushion Removal and Installation
- SleepWeaver Nasal CPAP Mask Full Video
- SleepWeaver Intro
- SleepWeaver Fitting Instructions
- SleepWeaver Cleaning and Maintaining
- How to Fit the SleepWeaver in 50 Seconds
- SleepWeaver elan Instructional Video
CPAP Users Say
CPAPtalk.com CPAP User Discussions
Did You Know?, Nasal
- Using a chinstrap will help prevent your mouth from dropping open during sleep, allowing your nasal mask to work more effectively.
- Nasal mask cushions should be changed every three to six months, or sooner if they lose shape.
- Mask sizes aren't universal. A medium in one mask my be a large in another.
- Moisture Therapy Cream may help alleviate irritation and redness.
Nasal Articles
CPAPtalk.com Wiki Articles
Research Articles
- Effect of Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Treatment on Blood Pressure in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
- Ambulatory Blood Pressure After Therapeutic and Subtherapeutic Nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea: A Randomised Parallel Trial
- Reduction in Motor Vehicle Collisions Following Treatment of Sleep Apnoea with Nasal CPAP
- Reduced Hospitalization with Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Disease in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients on Nasal CPAP Treatment
Top Nasal
Top Nasal by User Review
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DreamWisp Nasal CPAP Mask With Headgear5 of 5 Stars
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Wisp Pediatric Nasal CPAP Mask Fit Pack5 of 5 Stars
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MiniMe 2 Nasal Pediatric Mask w/Headgear5 of 5 Stars
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AirFit N20 Nasal CPAP Mask Multi-Pack4.8 of 5 Stars
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Mirage™ FX For Her Nasal 4.6 of 5 Stars
Top Nasal by Sales
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ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask4.2 of 5 Stars
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ResMed AirFit™ N30i Nasal CPAP Mask4.5 of 5 Stars
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AirFit N20 Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear4.4 of 5 Stars
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DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask Fit Pack4.4 of 5 Stars
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DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear4.4 of 5 Stars
Top Nasal by User Review
Top Nasal by Sales
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ComfortGel Blue Nasal Mask
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ResMed AirFit™ N30i Nasal CPAP Mask
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AirFit N20 Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear
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DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask Fit Pack
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DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear