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A special events moderated chat was held on Monday, December 1, 2003 featuring Laurie Scott of Respironics. Laurie Scott is the Global Product Manager for Patient Interface for Respironics, leading the development of the Respironics Comfort Series of masks, including the new ComfortGel nasal and ComfortFull full face masks, as well as, the ComfortSelect nasal mask. We all wish to thank Ms. Scott for generously contributing her time to inform sleep disorder patients about the new ComfortGel nasal mask.
The questions and answers from the chat are listed below. Each question is linked to the answer for your easy reference.
1. When was the ComfortGel released?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortGel was released in mid September, 2003.
2. What are the features of the ComfortGel mask?
Laurie Scott answers: The key features are the unique gel cushion that provides mask stability, superior comfort and the benefit of customization. We also included a removable Comfort Flap® which provides an external layer of comfort and our best seal ever. The adjustable forehead arm helps to get the proper fit, eliminating leaks or pressure points with a simple click of the adjuster. The auto-adjusting forehead support cushion is extra wide to help eliminate pressure points. Finally, the new "ball-and-socket" headgear attachments make it easy to remove the mask without losing headgear adjustments.
3. How does the ComfortGel compare to the Profile Lite?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortGel uses a gel cushion technology like the Profile Lite, for ultimate comfort. The ComfortGel adds a separate Comfort Flap to improve seal without having to tighten the mask as much as the Profile Lite. We've also added many other mask features to improve adjustability, reduce pressure points and improve ease of use.
4. Can you still customize the gel cushion like you could with the Profile Lite?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes you can! Instructions can be found on the instruction sheet or on www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
5. Where can I get more information on your ComfortGel nasal mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Visit our web site at www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
6. How do you test your masks during your development phase, do you use real patients?
Laurie Scott answers: We perform multiple patient preference trials and focus groups throughout our design and development phases.
7. What sizes does the ComfortGel mask come in?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortGel is available in petite, small, medium and large. We found in our extensive trials with patients that most wear a small, followed closely by the medium size.
8. Will there be more sizes introduced for the ComfortGel?
Laurie Scott answers: The 4 sizes of the ComfortGel mask are designed to account for the majority of the patient population. Although the product will be continually improved and enhanced, there are no immediate plans to introduce additional sizes.
9. How much does the new Gel mask cost?
Laurie Scott answers: Contact your homecare provider to discuss costs. Generally, depending on your insurance coverage, you can get a replacement mask every 3 months to 6 months. Please check with your insurance carrier for details.
10. Is the ComfortGel mask lighter than the Profile Lite?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, that was our goal with the design of ComfortGel.
11. How do I know when to adjust the forehead arm?
Laurie Scott answers: Use the forehead arm or Stability Selector to eliminate leaks or pressure points. Leaks into the eyes usually are corrected by clicking the StabilitySelector™ downward. Leaks below the nose usually are corrected by clicking the StabilitySelector™ upward. You can view 3-D graphics showing how to correct leaks and pressure points by visiting our website at www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
12. Does the cushion come off the ComfortGel mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, both the Comfort Flap® and the blue gel cushion are removable.
13. I like the ball and socket clips on the new ComfortGel and ComfortFull, why don't you have it on your other masks?
Laurie Scott answers: We are glad that you like these innovative, easy to use clips! These have become very popular since they allow for easy connecting/disconnecting. We'll keep your preference in mind as we develop future masks.
14. Can I use the Respironics ComfortGel with your C-Flex machine?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, REMstar Pro and REMstar Plus with C-Flex can be used with all of our Comfort Series masks.
15. Does the new ComfortGel mask make a lot of noise?
Laurie Scott answers: In our user preference trials, participants using Respironics and non-Respironics masks stated our ComfortGel mask was quieter than other masks they were using.
16. Does the ComfortGel replace the Profile Lite mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Respironics has not discontinued the Profile Lite. We DO consider the ComfortGel superior in several ways.
17. How does my provider get trained in fitting your masks?
Laurie Scott answers: We offer guides to help providers learn the best practices for sizing and fitting masks. Our sales reps also offer Mask Fitting workshops to keep providers skills up to date.
18. How do I know I have the right size mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Your homecare provider is able to size you correctly for the ComfortGel mask by using the sizing gauge provided on the mask bag. Your ComfortGel mask should be slightly wider than your nose. It should also be long enough to sit comfortably on the bridge of your nose and rest above your upper lip. The mask does not need to sit high on the bridge - the comfort flap will help with seal below that point. Just ensure that the mask doesn't close off the nasal passages. To learn more about sizing and fitting the ComfortGel mask go to www.comfortseries.respironics.com
19. How does the ComfortGel compare to your other masks like the Comfort Select and Comfort Classic or full face mask?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortGel was designed to combine the best of the ComfortSelect, Profile Lite and the ComfortFull. We incorporated winning features from these masks, such as the gel cushion, dual flap, ball and socket headgear clips and the forehead arm adjuster because we knew their value to ensuring a good, comfortable seal.
20. How do I know what size mask I currently have?
Laurie Scott answers: We have designed our recent Comfort Series of masks with printed size indicators at the base of the cushion. The size indication corresponds to the letter of the size: P - Petite, S - Small, M - Medium, and L - Large. Older Respironics masks had smaller raised letters on the face or cushion.
21. Did you do patient trials with this ComfortGel mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, we do patient trials throughout our development cycle to ensure that EVERY new mask we release will work well with regard to seal, comfort, noise, pressure points, etc. Patients in trials understand that the intent is to provide us with feedback - both good and bad, to improve the mask so that their AND your overall experience with PAP therapy is improved. Those who have been on therapy for years understand how much masks have improved over the years.
22. What did you learn in the trials?
Laurie Scott answers: We asked patients to evaluate the new ComfortGel mask vs. their regular, pre-trial mask. We ask about a number of attributes and ask if the ComfortGel is better than, about the same or worse than their regular mask.... We are excited to say that the ComfortGel was rated BETTER THAN their regular masks on: overall comfort, seal and fit, adjustability, stability, minimal pressure points, noise level, ease of cleaning, headgear comfort and overall satisfaction. As you can guess, when asked their preference, the ComfortGel won hands down!
23. Did you 'stack' the trial participants with users of some old, terrible masks?!?
Laurie Scott answers: Absolutely not! No one would come out ahead if we released a mask that didn't pass muster with strong patient trial results. We approached both DMEs and labs looking for users of ANY nasal mask, including our own ComfortSelect, ComfortClassic & Profile Lite... as well as users of leading competitor's masks.
24. How come you don't have Quick Clips on the forehead arm of the ComfortGel?
Laurie Scott answers: We found that most patients really only use the bottom clips for daily use... and some still use the 'catcher's mask' method of removal! The ball and socket headgear clips are an easy to use clip that was well received on the ComfortFull. The forehead arm is removable. Some find that they prefer to clean the forehead arm and ball and socket clips along with their headgear - and they never have to unfasten the Velcro tabs and lose their 'perfect' adjustment.
25. I'd like to order a ComfortGel over the internet, how do I know what size I need?
Laurie Scott answers: Glad you asked. We have put our sizing gauges on the Comfort Series™ website, www.comfortseries.respironics.com. All you need to do is print one (be sure to verify that it prints in "actual size"), cut it out and size yourself.
26. There is air coming out of the elbow of my mask - is this OK?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, what you are feeling is the air coming from the exhalation valve. This is an intentional leak to help remove CO2 from the mask. Never cover or attempt to block these holes. Your Pap unit is designed to still provide your therapy pressure.
27. Is it easy to take the ComfortGel mask on and off?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, the headgear on ComfortGel can be easily attached and removed through the use of our innovative ball-and-socket headgear clips.
28. How do I know what size ComfortGel I'd take?
Laurie Scott answers: Proper fit is important. Your homecare provider should use a sizing gauge; one is integrated into the mask bag. Choose the smallest mask that fits without pinching or obstructing the nostrils. Refer to our website for more information on proper sizing/fitting of ComfortGel.
29. When I adjusted my ComfortGel Mask the adjuster and forehead arm came apart. Did I break it?
Laurie Scott answers: No, at this time the forehead support arm is removable and is a replaceable part.
30. Will your ComfortGel mask work with my Bi-level?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes.
31. Can I replace the cushion on my Profile Lite like with the ComfortGel?
Laurie Scott answers: No, the Profile Lite cushion comes from the factory bonded to the frame.
32. My mask is leaking around my eyes - what can I do to stop it?
Laurie Scott answers: Mask leakage into the eyes is commonly caused by improper adjustment of the forehead arm or a gel spacer that is too long. At times, you have been fitted for the wrong size. Detailed instruction on proper fitting of the Comfort Series of masks can be found on our website at www.comfortseries.respironics.com or contact your homecare provider to re-evaluate your mask fit.
33. What is your headgear made of?
Laurie Scott answers: The Deluxe Headgear used on the ComfortGel is made of Velstretch/Lycra Laminate. Our new headgear on the ComfortFull is made of Nylon/Lycra Laminate, and the Simplicity headgear is Neoprene/nylon. Most of our headgears are made from one or more of the previous materials listed. If you need information on any other Respironics headgear, please contact your homecare provider.
34. My husband loves the headgear that comes with the ComfortFull mask. - Can I use this headgear with my ComfortGel or ComfortSelect mask?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortHeadgear is available as an accessory for any of our masks that require four connections.
35. Can I use any of the Respironics headgears with ComfortGel?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, the ComfortGel has been designed to accommodate all standard Respironics headgears including the ComfortHeadgear, Simple Strap, Deluxe Headgear, and our Softcaps.
36. So, how did the users of the leading competitor's mask, the Ultra Mirage, rate the new ComfortGel in your trials?
Laurie Scott answers: Well, we are glad you asked! 74% of the participants that used the leading competitor's mask preferred the ComfortGel over their regular mask. They also rated the ComfortGel better than their regular mask on overall comfort, seal and fit, stability, minimal pressure points, stability, noise, headgear comfort, and overall satisfaction and preference.
37. How do I clean my new ComfortGel mask?
Laurie Scott answers: We recommend using mild soapy water on a daily basis for optimal results for any of our masks. Avoid soap with moisturizers. Cushions tend to interact to natural facial oils, so be sure to wash your face each night before use. Your seal and comfort can be compromised if cushions acquire build up on the cushion surface. For those with sensitive skin, it is a good idea to soak ANY new mask you use for 30-60 minutes in mild soapy water.
38. I like to wear a soft cap. Can I wear this with the ComfortGel mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Go right ahead! The ComfortGel comes with the Deluxe Headgear. However, we want you to wear what you are most comfortable with.
39. I'm a brand new user and just got my ComfortGel mask ...do you have any suggestions to help me make this mask work well for me?
Laurie Scott answers: ComfortGel comes with a variety of comfort and adjustment options including the Gel cushion, headgear ball-and-socket clips, and the adjustable forehead arm. Your DME can help you with proper training. Also, carefully read the Operating Instructions packaged with the mask. They are also available on our website at www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
40. I have allergies, what are your masks made of?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortGel comfort flap is silicone and the cushion is covered with polyurethane. ComfortFull, ComfortSelect, ComfortClassic, Simplicity, & Soft Series cushions are all silicone. The Profile Lite cushion is polyurethane. For those with sensitive skin, it is a good idea to soak ANY new mask you use for 30-60 minutes in mild soapy water. To view our mask material list please visit our web site at www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
41.My current mask is causing the bridge of my nose to hurt - what should I do?
Laurie Scott answers: Irritation on the bridge of the nose can be caused by several factors including over-tightening the mask and improper adjustment of the forehead arm or improper gel spacer length. Detailed instructions on proper fitting of the Comfort Series of masks can be found on our website at www.comfortseries.respironics.com. Or contact your homecare provider to re-evaluate your mask fit.
42. How frequently do I have to replace the headgear?
Laurie Scott answers: Replace your headgear when you notice wear and tear. The life depends on your usage and care. Wash the headgear at least once a week in mild soapy water. Make sure you check with your insurance provider regarding their policy on accessory replacement.
43. The Deluxe Headgear feels a little long on the back of my neck. Do you have a shorter one?
Laurie Scott answers: Actually, one benefit of the ball and socket headgear clips is that you can roll the headgear "up" once or twice if that is more comfortable for you.
44. What is the purpose of the forehead adjuster on masks, mine doesn't have one?
Laurie Scott answers: The forehead adjuster allows the mask to rest at an appropriate angle on the face with respect to the forehead cushion, so there are no leaks or pressure points. A simple way to understand how to use the forehead adjuster is remembering to move the adjuster in the opposite direction of any leaks: move the adjuster UP for leaks below the bottom of the mask and DOWN for leaks at the top of the mask.
45. What pressures will the ComfortGel mask work with?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortGel has been approved for a minimum pressure of 3 cm H20, up to the maximum limits of your device.
46. I heard that the cushion of the ComfortFull is not replaceable - do you have any mask where the cushion can be replaced?
Laurie Scott answers: Yes, the gel cushion and comfort flap provided with the ComfortGel are replaceable. The Small and Medium sized cushions & comfort flaps both fit on the same mask frame (the frames will soon be labeled next to the blue ComfortGel logo on the mask). ComfortSelect Nasal Mask also has is a replaceable cushion. The frame for the faceplate or frame of the mask is the same for all sizes of the ComfortSelect. You do not have to remove the cushion from the ComfortSelect.
47. Why did you put extra clips in the bag with my mask, do you expect them to break?
Laurie Scott answers: No, just like an extra button sewn inside a new shirt, we want you to be prepared if you lose one.
48. I was looking at your web site and I noticed the mask I use - the Gold Seal is not there. Has this mask been discontinued?
Laurie Scott answers: No, we do not have plans at this time to discontinue the Gold Seal. The Profile Lite was released as the next generation to the Gold Seal mask, with the ComfortGel as the latest gel mask in the series of popular masks. Many homecare providers have moved their patients to newer gel masks. Visit our web site www.comfortseries.respironics.com to see the ComfortGel, Profile Lite mask and the other masks in our Comfort Series.
49. Where can I get leak rate on this mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Please refer to the ComfortGel operating instructions for pressure vs. leak for the ComfortGel exhalation port. This information is located at www.comfortseries.respironics.com. These charts are also available for our other Comfort Series mask. Operating instructions are also included in the bag for every mask.
50. Should I be standing or lying down when I am being fitted for a mask?
Laurie Scott answers: To start, we suggest the patient first be fitted in a sitting position. Once that is completed we suggest the patient lie down for final adjustments. To learn more about sizing and fitting the ComfortGel mask go to www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
51. I have a fairly large nose; will this mask work for me?
Laurie Scott answers: Very likely yes, but it is best to contact your homecare provider and be properly sized. The large ComfortGel is one of the widest masks we have ever made.
52. Some people say that C-Flex will help me with mask leaks. What do they mean by this?
Laurie Scott answers: Respironics offers the REMstar Pro with C-Flex which lowers the amount of pressure delivered at exhalation by tracking and reacting to every breath at night. Many patients experience less mask leaks due to the pressure relief at exhalation, when mask leaks commonly occur.
53. My provider said I should use vinegar and water on my mask but I don't see that on your instructions. Is this ok?
Laurie Scott answers: While occasional use of vinegar will not harm the mask, we recommend mild, soapy water.
54. Can your ComfortGel mask be used with any other CPAP units?
Laurie Scott answers: Generally yes, our masks will work with other CPAP's.
55. How do I make sure my homecare company gives me the mask and machine I want?
Laurie Scott answers: In order to receive the masks and devices you want, you should communicate your preferences to your doctor and your provider. Your doctor may prescribe a specific mask or device on your prescription.
56. Do I need a prescription to change my mask from a nasal to and full face mask or vice versa?
Laurie Scott answers: Generally no but check with your homecare provider or DME because they know what the standard of practice in your area.
57. Can I purchase ComfortGel directly from Respironics?
Laurie Scott answers: Respironics does not sell directly to the public. You will need to contact your local medical equipment distributor or online providers to purchase your mask.
58. How do I order accessories for the ComfortGel?
Laurie Scott answers: Respironics does not sell directly to the public. You will need to contact your local DME or homecare provider or online providers to purchase accessories for your mask.
59. Do any of your masks have any Latex parts?
Laurie Scott answers: No, we do not use Latex in any of our masks.
60. What type of masks does Respironics manufacture?
Laurie Scott answers: Respironics manufactures traditional nasal masks (ComfortClassic, ComfortSelect), nasal gel masks (ComfortGel, Profile Lite, Gold Seal), full face masks (ComfortFull) and total face masks (Total Face). The Simplicity is a 'tip of the nose' nasal mask. Our Comfort Series is a full family of masks designed to provide the highest degree of comfort and fit. Visit our web site at www.respironics.com or www.comfortseries.respironics.com to learn more.
61. How often can I get a new mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Many insurers allow replacement every 3-6 months but it is important to work closely with your provider in order to understand options for receiving a new mask and replacing your old mask. Contact your provider to determine your mask replacement options.
62. I live out of the US, how do I get a ComfortGel Mask?
Laurie Scott answers: Contact your homecare provider. If you do not have a homecare provider in your area, contact our customer service department at 1-800-345-6443 or 724-387-5200 and they will be able to give you a list of providers. You also can check the internet for providers who are able to sell masks via the internet.
63. How often should I replace my mask?
Laurie Scott answers: With proper care, a mask should last several months... If a part breaks, contact your provider to see if it can be replaced. Remember, depending on your insurance coverage, you can generally get a replacement mask every 3 months to 6 months. Please check with your insurance carrier for details.
64. It is time to think about replacing my mask. What mask is the best?
Laurie Scott answers: We recommend the mask that fits you the best and is the most comfortable. Faces, heads and noses vary greatly, so patient preference is frequently the deciding factor. It's best to become familiar with the masks available to you. We found the ComfortGel worked well for our trial participants - even the hard to fit ones! View our Comfort Series of masks visit our web site at www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
65. Can I buy your masks through the internet?
Laurie Scott answers: Several online CPAP and accessory sites exist.
66. I tend to react initially to every mask I've tried, how can I avoid this?
Laurie Scott answers: It is recommended that you wash your mask per the manufacturer's instructions before using the first time. If you have known skin sensitivities, SOAK any new mask in warm soapy water for up to 60 minutes. If you still experience skin redness or irritation with a product, contact your healthcare professional.
67. I need to occasionally use oxygen. I don't see the little oxygen port on the new ComfortGel mask. Am I out of luck?
Laurie Scott answers: No. A separate adapter is available for use just below the exhalation elbow. Contact your Homecare dealer.
68. Is your new gel mask difficult to put back together after cleaning, I can never seem to get my nasal mask back together without having to retrace some steps?
Laurie Scott answers: Luckily there are just a few removable parts with the ComfortGel! The Comfort Flap simply snaps in and our, and the gel cushion merely sits on the frame under the flap. No other parts need to be removed for daily cleaning.
69. Do I really have to clean my mask every day?
Laurie Scott answers: We recommend using mild soapy water on a daily basis for optimal results. Avoid soap with moisturizers. Cushions tend to interact to natural facial oils, so be sure to wash your face each night before use. Your seal and comfort can be compromised if cushions acquire build up on the cushion surface.
70. Do I need to take the new Comfort Gel mask apart when I clean it?
Laurie Scott answers: No, there is no need to disassemble the mask. Wash the mask in warm water with a mild soap and air dry. You may need to shake the mask or unsnap the Comfort Flap to remove excess moisture. Avoid soap with moisturizers.
71. Can I wash the mask in the dishwasher?
Laurie Scott answers: No. It is best to follow the cleaning instructions provided with your mask.
72. I frequently wake up with severe nasal dryness and nosebleeds while using my mask?
Laurie Scott answers: If you experience a runny nose, dryness, congestion, or a nosebleed when using CPAP therapy, contact your provider and ask about adding a humidifier to your therapy device.
73. I just opened my mask and it has a slight "plastic" smell. Is this normal?
Laurie Scott answers: One should wash all masks and headgear before using for the first time. If a slight smell can still be detected, soak it up to 60 minutes in warm soapy water. Like a new car most "newness" smells diminish in a relatively short time.
74. When I wake up in the morning, my mouth, throat and nose are real dry. I don't feel like my CPAP is working right as I'm also still real tired. Any suggestions?
Laurie Scott answers: You may be a mouth breather...as you are sleeping, your mouth may be opening. The air from your CPAP follows the path of least resistance into your nose and right out your mouth. This causes you to dry out and also reduces your CPAP therapy. Talk to your provider about getting a ComfortFull Face mask. A full mace mask covers and delivers the therapy through the mouth as well as the nose. If you are only mildly dry, you may need to add heated humidification.
75. When I wake up in the morning my mask is often off of my face, why is this happening?
Laurie Scott answers: This could happen for a number of reasons, nasal congestion, wrong size mask, need for humidification or even resistance to PAP therapy. It's best to discuss this matter with your physician.
76. I've been using my CPAP for two months and I don't feel any different, what should I do?
Laurie Scott answers: You should contact your physician and discuss how you are feeling. You may need an adjustment to your therapy or a change in your mask type eg: you may have a nasal mask but you are a mouth breather and need a full face mask to receive your full therapy.
77. What is the purpose of the black rubber flapper in the valve area of your ComfortFull FFM?
Laurie Scott answers: This is the key part of the safety entrainment valve. When you put on your mask without pressure, the black flapper will be down, allowing room air to flow into your mask through the large holes in the valve. Once your device is turned on and pressure if flowing, the flapper raises to a position that blocks the large opening in the valve. Normal exhalation of CO2 will be cleared via the small holes above the larger hole in the valve. Without power, you will still be able to breathe room air through either your nose or mouth.
78. What do I do if I can't get a mask to stop leaking?
Laurie Scott answers: Make sure you are not over-tightening the headgear - this usually makes the leak worse. Try the forehead adjuster to see if you can eliminate the leaks. If these suggestions do not solve your leak problem, it is possible that you might have the incorrect size. Contact you homecare provider to be refitted.
79. I open my mouth when I go to sleep and I currently use a nasal mask with chin strap. Should I try a Full Face mask?
Laurie Scott answers: The use of a chin strap is typically used for mouth breathers to stop the mouth from opening during sleep and disrupting therapy. The ComfortFull mask covers both the nose and mouth allowing the mouth to open during sleep without interfering with therapy. Some have found that they mouth-breathe due to a resistance to the PAP flow, or the difficulty of exhaling against that flow. The REMstar family of products offers C-Flex, a comfort setting that gives pressure relieve at the beginning of exhalation - making it easier to exhale against. A ComfortGel nasal mask and C-Flex may improve your mouth-breathing. It is best to contact your physician to confirm your therapy options.
80. You mentioned your ComfortGel trials - how did your ComfortFull do in the trials you did before it was released for sale?
Laurie Scott answers: Once again, we were quite pleased with the results. Almost all participants used non-Respironics FF masks. They rated the ComfortFull better overall on comfort, seal, adjustability, pressure points, stability, noise level, cleaning and reassembly, headgear comfort and overall preference. In fact, 76% preferred the ComfortFull to their pre-trial FFM.
81. What does the mask alarm on my machine do?
Laurie Scott answers: The mask alarm available on many Respironics devices provides an audible indication that you are experiencing a significant level of leakage. Proper fit and adjustment of the mask before going to sleep can minimize such events.
82. If I run into a problem with the adjustment of the mask, whom do I contact for help?
Laurie Scott answers: Your homecare provider or DME can help, however, detailed instructions on proper adjustment of ComfortGel (or other Comfort Series masks) can be found packaged with the mask and also on our website at www.comfortseries.respironics.com.
83. Why doesn't the headgear on your full face mask stretch as much as your other headgear?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortHeadgear was specifically designed for a sturdier, more stable mask foundation for the ComfortFull mask.
84. Why does my forehead spacer sometimes snap off - I use the Classic mask?
Laurie Scott answers: This unlikely occurrence could be caused by over-tightening of the forehead straps - which could be the result of improper mask or spacer size. We just released a new shorter spacer option for the Classic; you may want to ask your provider about it. Check your Operating Instructions to understand how to properly adjust your mask. If these do not help you, contact your provider to determine that you have received a correctly sized mask.
85. Does Respironics see a trend to the Full Face mask?
Laurie Scott answers: For years there have been few effective and comfortable full face masks to choose from for patients that breathed through their mouth. Many resorted to using chinstraps. With the increased comfort and superior seal capabilities of the ComfortFull, we anticipate more current and future OSA patients will be fitted with a FFM.
86. What kind of glue can I fix my mask with?
Laurie Scott answers: Respironics doesn't recommend gluing or taping a broken mask...it should be replaced.
87. Most of the full face masks we have used had to be really tight to seal. Is that the case with your full face mask?
Laurie Scott answers: No, it is important to get a good seal without over tightening. We have been able to accomplish this with the ComfortFull dual flap design. During our trials we had patients at 20 cm that were able to be sealed without over tightening the mask.
88. My tubing won't fit onto my gold seal mask...what is wrong?
Laurie Scott answers: The Gold Seal was not sold with an exhalation port...you need to purchase whisper swivel (pn 332113) and attach this to the mask...the tubing will attach to the other end. The Gold Seal, as well as the silicone Contour mask, are made this way to prevent patients from accidentally forgetting to hook up their exhalation port.
89. Do I need to disassemble the cushion and flap of the ComfortGel to clean it properly?
Laurie Scott answers: Disassembling will help to remove excess water and soap from beneath and between the flap and cushion.
90. Why would someone need a full face mask?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortFull was developed to address the needs of those patients who mouth-breathe. Patients breathe through their mouth for a number of reasons - sinus problems, deviated septum, therapy intolerance, or just habit. Whatever the reason, using a nasal mask will generally result in a loss of PAP pressure for mouth breathers, compromising your therapy. A FFM allows you to get your full therapy and still allow for breathing through either the mouth or nose.
91. When was your ComfortFull released?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortFull was released in June, 2003.
92. Why did it take you so long to get your full face mask on the market?
Laurie Scott answers: It was important to make sure we had the most comfortable, best sealing FFM on the market upon release. We met our challenge with the release of the ComfortFull!
93. What sizes does your full face mask come in?
Laurie Scott answers: The ComfortFull is available in small, medium and large. We found in our extensive trials with patients that most wear a large, followed closely by the medium size.
94. Will there be more sizes introduced for the ComfortFull?
Laurie Scott answers: The 3 sizes of the ComfortFull Full Face mask are designed to account for the majority of the patient population. Although the product will be continually improved and enhanced, there are no immediate plans to introduce additional sizes.
95. How do I use the gray swivel at the base of the exhalation port of your FFM?
Laurie Scott answers: That entrainment valve swivel is a one of our favorite enhancements! Your tubing slips over the lower part of the swivel. By squeezing on the tabs on the sides of the entrainment valve, the swivel AND your hose drop free, allowing you to get up and use the restroom without having to remove your mask. Squeeze again, and your swivel and tubing reattach easily.
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