Mask leaks after sleeping an hour or longer

[Woody]

I am a side sleeper and use a full face mask. I may start the night and not
have any mask leaks but often after sleeping form 1 to 3 hrs I may get
a large mask leak. Then after having a horrible leak for a while it clears
up. Any idea how to track down and solve a problem like that. I thought
about buying a infrared video camera to see if I could spot the problem
that way buy any other cheaper better ideas?

[LSAT]

Is it affecting your sleep or are you just seeing it in Sleepyhead?

[Woody]

Oh I still sleep ok. And for the most part my Sleepyhead
report is ok but the ocasional night with a leak rate in the
12 to 21 % range has me worried.

[QueSera]

I have a similar leak pattern. I got an ordinary, inexpensive home security camera and recorded myself all night; it turns out I talk in my sleep during certain sleep stages.

[Wulfman...]

I am a side sleeper and use a full face mask. I may start the night and not
have any mask leaks but often after sleeping form 1 to 3 hrs I may get
a large mask leak. Then after having a horrible leak for a while it clears
up. Any idea how to track down and solve a problem like that. I thought
about buying a infrared video camera to see if I could spot the problem
that way buy any other cheaper better ideas?

Hi Woody,

Since you have the same mask in your profile as the one I use.......and, you're also a side-sleeper, my first suspicion would be "bed pillow". What type do you use? Standard fiberfill? If so, your head may be sinking into it and pushing your mask out of alignment.
I use a Chiroflow water-based pillow. You can adjust the firmness by adjusting the amount of water in it. I was using mine long before I started this therapy. I just ordered a couple of new ones at a significant discount, so if you (or anyone else) want the link, PM me and I'll send it to you.
Do the leaks start and stop abruptly? That's what mine have typically done over the years. I don't really worry about them unless it's consistent night after night.
If you're using a range of pressures and the leaks start when your pressures rise, maybe a little adjustment (tightening) of the headgear may help.


Den

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