How to tape mouth shut

Sorry...I am sure this has been discussed...but just how does one tape their mouth (vertically with several strips??) and what type of tape do you use? I have come to the conclusion that I need to do this...I feel certain that my mouth is falling open thereby causing terrible leaks.

Morning Deb
There are many threads on the site about this subject. In a nutshell...........
1 inch micropore tape or blue painters tape.
Put chap lip on your lips first then suck them in like you just ate a lemon.
Place a strip of tape over your lips from left to right.
Relax your lips under the tape.
Hint...leave a folded over bit on each edge to facilitate easy tape removal.
Read all of the other threads, you will get many suggestions.
Good luck
Nan

debo415 wrote:Sorry...I am sure this has been discussed...but just how does one tape their mouth (vertically with several strips??) and what type of tape do you use? I have come to the conclusion that I need to do this...I feel certain that my mouth is falling open thereby causing terrible leaks.

Taping your mouth shut is not the best idea if there is an alternative. You might consider using a chin strap or a chin-up strip. You can make your own chin-up strip.


I use a FFM and certainly if I didn't tape, my mouth would fall open and, as you say, cause a terrible leak. So I tape to keep my jaw closed, but I don't cover my mouth. I tried a chin strap but could not get that to work.

Maybe I didn't word things correctly. I don't know if my mouth is falling open or if it is my jaw dropping...all I know is that I am being awakened during the night with extremely LOUD "facial farting" as my hubby calls it LOL! I asked for a new mask...got the Fisher Paykel that goes under the chin...it's even worse...noise is more pronounced due to larger surface area. Asked my provider for a chin strap and she said that the FP is designed so that a chin strap isn't needed...Well...I need SOMETHING! I am waking up tired....I yawn constantly during the day...I am cranky and getting depressed! I have only been on cpap since Feb...first month was wonderful..but I feel like I am sliding backwards! HELP!

debo415 wrote:Asked my provider for a chin strap and she said that the FP is designed so that a chin strap isn't needed

What an unhelpful provider that is. She should have let you at least try using a chin strap with the mask.

About tape:

LINKS to: Mouth leaks - Air Leaks - Tape - DIY Guard
viewtopic.php?t=8011

I am using Nanwilsons way and it works like a charm!

Thanks so much for the links....a LOT of helpful information there! It's also nice to know that I am not the only one who has struggled with these problems. I was starting to think I had some sort of odd shaped face since the "tried and true" Fisher Paykel leaked on me LOL!

Someone taught me the following:

1. #2080 blue painter's tape, 2 inch wide
2. cut 8-10 inch strip, tape horizontal across mouth
3. before taping mouth, pucker lips inward

I find adding papcap plus 4 chinstrap helps keep the tape more secure and now leak rate is almost flat nightly. Still have that occasional blow-up. Can't tell when it happens, it just does!

Good luck.

you need a chinstrap and can make 1 from pantyhose, tying knots
theres really no alternative to taping to keep lips sealed, roll lips inward so tape goes on skin above and below lips
a chinstrap and taping are often both needed

I've been using tape for about 3-years....and my AHI stays at 1.0 or below.

Best tape I've found is #2080 Blue 2" Painter's Delicate Release Tape by 3M from Lowe's paint department.

Recently I changed my taping proceedure to include 3-pieces of tape. I put a 3" piece (at an angle) on either side of my nose....from my cheeks down to my chin.

I add a 10" piece (with ends folded to provide "handles") from side to side......on top of the vertical pieces... on top of my mouth.....and just below my nose.

IMPORTANT: When removing tape, DO NOT pull at 90-degrees to your face. That's uncomfortable.

Remove the tape by pulling PARALLEL to your face.....and you'll hardly feel any discomfort.

I find that my new method of applying the tape is better than just a single piece straight across. The design looks something like ------\---/------- and "blowouts" or leaks are prevented.

Do some experimentation with tape....and I think you'll find better therapy with more comfort.