If you're using a CPAP machine for your sleep apnea, then you probably are already familiar with sleep apnea masks.  These masks fit over the face and are attached to long hoses which hook up to the CPAP machine so that you get your steady stream of oxygen.  There are some things to remember about the proper use of sleep apnea masks; if you're not using your mask properly you won't be getting the oxygen you need or will find that it's too uncomfortable and is interfering with your sleep.

The most important part of choosing between sleep apnea masks is that they need to fit snug enough to keep the oxygen inside the masks but not be so snug that the tightness becomes uncomfortable.  Very often people make the mistake of using a mask that's too loose because they feel it's uncomfortable to have one pushed up against the skin, but this means that oxygen is being leaked out.  Effective sleep apnea masks will form a type of seal or barrier around the skin so that no oxygen is being lost.

On the other hand, finding sleep apnea masks that are too tight will mean that the skin is being pinched or rubbed and this might interfere with sleep even more than the apnea itself.  Masks should fit comfortably but not too tightly.  Think of picking out shoes - you want a pair that are snug enough that they don't slide off your feet as you walk but not so tight that you're in pain because of them.  So consider this when trying different sleep apnea masks; ask yourself if it's comfortable enough to sleep in but not so loose that you're going to lose oxygen and defeat the purpose of the mask itself.

Most CPAP machines come with sleep apnea masks but if the one you receive is not comfortable then it's time to make a change, or if it's too loose then you'll need a different size or model.  Don't hesitate to try out a few different sleep apnea masks rather than just accept the one you've been given; remember that you'll be wearing this mask for some eight hours every day so of course it should work for you.  Choosing between sleep apnea masks is like choosing everything else - what works for one person might not be the best option for you!