OptiLife CPAP Mask with Nasal Pillow Cushions & Headgear

Hi,

Any one that have experience with this mask please give some comments.

OptiLife CPAP Mask with Nasal Pillow Cushions & Headgear

http://www.cpapxchange.com/cpap-masks-b ... bipap.html

Thank you.

Mckooi

That is the mask that I have been using. I have gotten used to it, although I still don't know that it is the ideal mask for me. I am relatively new to all of this. I have experimented with the different size pillows that come with the OptiLife and seem to have found a comfortable combination for myself. I can wear the headgear very loosely with no readily discernable leaks, although it will lose a seal if you are a restless sleeper (as I tend to be).

I have used it for two weeks and like it except for one thing. The supply tube goes down instead of up toward the headboard. It is fixed in this position and gets in the way while turning and tends to break the seal for me. My titration was done with the Swift II (same type of mask) and think I would like it better than the Optilife.

I have used this mask for several months and like it tremendously. I switch off between several masks and always enjoy using this one as it is so easy to get a seal and keep it. I like the fact they send all three sizes of pillows. I can get by with the med., but the large works best. Go for it!!! jim

It's not a perfect mask and I'm considering trying others to see how they work for me (the grass always seems greener elsewhere, you know!), but I do like my OptiLife. As Ody mentioned, the supply tube going downward is kind of annoying; I really wish it went up (though I like the fact that there's nothing between my eyes) or had a swivel.

Also, I HIGHLY recommend using the Performance Hose with this mask. It seems a little more fragile than regular hoses, but the light weight helps to not pull the OptiLife out of place. As a side sleeper, I often have it draped across my neck or my body, but since it's so lightweight I hardly notice it there.

Finally, don't expect the chin strap to keep your mouth shut; it's only there to stabilize the mask. If you're a mouth breather, you'll still need to use some other solution to stay closed.

The Opti-Life is the only mask I've ever used since I started CPAP therapy 2 months ago. (Even my titration study used the Opti-Life.) I think it's okay, I am not that excited about it and will get a different one next time (probably the Swift II).

The Opti-Life is fairly comfortable, though I have to strap the headgear on fairly tightly to get a good seal. If I change positions much during sleep, the seal tends to loosen and I get leaks, but fortunately I don't change positions much during sleep.

Since I wear glasses, I like that the Opti-Life allows me to wear glasses (though this probably isn't a big deal - usually by the time I strap the mask on, I'm about ready for lights-out). (Also, I think other nasal-pillow style masks also let you wear glasses)

The Opti-Life has a built-in chinstrap. I believe it is designed to help stabilize the mask, not to prevent mouth breathing. But I haven't had a problem with mouth breathing (at least, not as far as I know). Not sure whether the mask gets the credit for this.

I'm sorry I cannot give you a more definitive recommendation. If you are buying the mask, buy from cpap.com and get their return insurance. If you're getting from a DME, inquire whether you can swap it for a different one if you don't like it.

Good luck!

-Ron

I have used the Optilife for almost 6 months. I previously had a ComfortLite2. After the big forehead piece and weight of CL2, the Optlife was a relief. I (almost) forget it's there. I like the hose going down and out of way of face. I do not have to strap it down tight to get a good seal. I do have some problems getting back strap to stay down when hair is shiny and straight. There are several fixes suggested on this site that I may try.

After 6 months the straps are beginning to look a little worn. The headgear can be replaced without doing the entire mask.

I recommend you trying this mask.

This is the first mask I bought, Optilife did not work for me. After trying a few masks, I found Swift II works best and Activa comes second. Optilife tends to slips out of my head and having large leaks too. I have since give up on Optilife. Swift II have since become my primary mask.

Check your PM.

hi greenice,

pls check your pm.

mckooi