CPAP Nasal Pillow Masks – The New Go-To CPAP Mask
The New Go-To CPAP Mask – Nasal Pillows
The days of big, bulky, and heavy masks are over. Not only has the size and weight for nasal and full face CPAP masks had numerous design improvements, but the comfort factor also continues to advance. More CPAP users are realizing that they are not stuck with the old, uncomfortable and ill fitting mask their DME gave them. Choices abound and it’s highly likely that if your CPAP is not working for you, another one exists which will do the job.
Is the CPAP Nasal Pillow Mask Taking Over?
Even with comfort and choices for nasal and full face CPAP masks increasing, nasal pillow masks and hybrid masks are becoming all the rage. It’s quite obvious why a nasal pillow or hybrid mask is popular; extremely lightweight, few parts, limited facial contact, no eyesight impairment and remarkably comfortable. Thus, who would not want to wear a mask which was barely noticeable while wearing? For the most part, people who are able to use them are quite satisfied with them and most likely would not return to a nasal or full face CPAP mask unless it was necessary.
A Little History About CPAP Nasal Pillow Masks
Nasal pillow mask started to become popular around the time Puritan Bennett released their Breeze Sleepgear and ResMed released the original Swift. The Puritan Bennett Breeze and ResMed Swift were highly innovative and essentially broke ground on a new style of masks. Both are still relatively popular today. However, looking at today’s nasal pillow masks, the Breeze and Swift are clunky and outdated. However, always the innovator, ResMed’s Swift FX is the most popular nasal pillow mask on the market today. Its lightweight design and comfort has made a convert out of many nasal mask users. Of course, ResMed is not the only manufacturer to have successful nasal pillow masks.
Phillips Respironics OptiLife with its square pillow design has had modest success. Two 2nd tier manufacturers, Devilbiss and Fisher &Paykel, each have launched very successful entrants into the market. Devilbiss’ Aloha nasal CPAP mask has a creative headgear and nasal pillow assembly which is both comfortable and effective. Fisher &Paykel’s Pilairo CPAP mask has a single band headgear, only three parts, and is extremely lightweight. Although both are not as well known, each has had moderate success with its nasal pillow masks.
CPAP Hybrid Masks vs. CPAP Nasal Pillow Masks
Hybrid masks are the new entrants onto the mask stage. A hybrid mask lies somewhere in between a nasal pillow mask and a nasal mask. It has a very small profile with the cushion just large enough to cover the nose. The Fisher & Paykel Eson was the initial hybrid and received a bit of traction. It’s essentially a very small profile nasal mask which includes a forehead piece for support. The cushion is made to just cover the nose. The Phillips Respironics Wisp CPAP Mask is the newest and most popular on the market. It’s a true hybrid with the looks of a nasal pillow mask but a very small nasal cushion. Without a forehead bar, it relies on an innovative headgear that secures the mask in place. Its compact design and open field of vision is certainly attractive for those who would like to use a nasal pillow mask but prefer a standard nasal mask. From the first few days after the release, Phillips Respironics seems to have hit the mark. It has received very good reviews and continues to fly off the shelves. Of course, time will tell but all indications are CPAP users like its fit and feel.
New – More Comfortable - Solutions for CPAP Masks
As mentioned, CPAP masks continue to evolve. With CPAP use on the rise, it’s imperative that manufacturers such as ResMed, Phillips Respironics, Devilbiss and Fisher & Paykel continue to improve upon the comfort and style of masks. Remember that an old, uncomfortable CPAP mask is not the only solution. With all the options available, try something new. A comfortable and effective CPAP mask not only increases compliance but enables CPAP users to increase the quality of their sleep.
The CPAP Shop strives to enhance the lives of people with sleep apnea through information and high-quality therapeutic products. If you have questions about CPAP masks or machines or any of our line of accessories, please call (866) 414-9700.
