Filter
Top Products
Section 6: Helpful hints
15
Helpful hints
• When you use your SULLIVAN
®
Comfort™ bi-level system for the first
time you may notice an unusual sense of pressure when breathing. Even
though a reduced pressure is delivered when you breathe out, you may still
need to consciously push out when breathing out. This is normal and will
occur automatically when you are asleep. At first you may feel that the
pressure is impeding your breathing but this is not so. Take your time and
learn to adjust to this new sensation. To help you adjust, take a few deep
breaths when you start treatment.
The delay timer can help overcome this problem. The pressure will build up
gradually, over the period of time you select, from a barely noticeable level
to your prescribed pressures.
• Try to keep your mouth closed when using your Comfort. Do not try to talk.
If you open your mouth, air will leak out and this may feel a little
unpleasant. When you are asleep your mouth usually stays closed
automatically. However, if you wake at night and open your mouth, the
sensation of air rushing from your mouth might alarm you at first. You
should close your mouth and try to go back to sleep.
• Some people experience a continuing dryness of the nose, mouth or throat
when on bi-level treatment, particularly during the winter months. ResMed
produces a range of humidifiers to relieve these symptoms. Contact your
physician or equipment supplier for specific advice on whether these are
suitable for you. Note that your prescribed pressures may need to be reset if
a humidifier is used.
• Wash your face to remove excess facial oils before fitting the mask. This
will help prolong the life of the cushion.
• A tight fit of the mask is not necessary. The most efficient air seal is created
when the mask is well-balanced and comfortable, without being pulled tight.
Also, pulling the headgear straps tightly may lead to skin irritation or sensiti-
vity of the bridge of the nose or the upper lip.
It is best to set the final tension of the straps while lying down.
Note: A minor leak around the lower part of the face is sometimes preferable
to overtightening the mask. However, you should eliminate any air
leaks blowing in the direction of the eyes as this may cause eye
irritation.
• If you have a continuing problem with obtaining a comfortable and secure fit
with the nose mask, do not hesitate to contact your sleep clinic or equipment
supplier. They may be able to modify the cushion to improve the fit, or they
may suggest an alternative size or style of cushion, mask frame or headgear
from the wide range now available.
6