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Sore nose
I have just started using a CPAP machine and Swift LT mask and my nose is very sore. I've tried to adjust the straps and position of the mask, but it still is sore and becoming raw.
Is there a type of cream I can put on my nose that won't harm the mask ?
Is there a type of cream I can put on my nose that won't harm the mask ?
Views: 4021
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Mary Z on
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Bruce, various things have been suggested, you might try a bandaid over the sore spot- gives some cushioning. Duodern has been recommended- its a dressing available over the internet and medical supply stores (expensive- try a small amount first). I bought the extra thin 4" X 4" pad for about $10.00 on
Amazon.com. I wouldn't suggest the extra thin -it's to thin to provide much cushioning. I use two layers. It's supposed to protect the area and promote healing. There is also a product called Tough Pads available at WalMart. Lanolin (pure) has been suggested and I use it during the day and wash it off at night- not sure of its effect on the mask. Lanolin is recommended for nursing mothers to toughen the skin and prevent sore nipples from breastfeeding. Then a bandaid or other cushioning at night. There is a comfort cushion pad available from some of the cpap supply sites (about $15.00). Some people have found it helpful. If you can't find it just post a note and I'll find it for you. People have also used moleskin available at the drugstore, usually with supplies for the feet. Though I keep trying to find the perfect solution I think bandaids work as well as anything (you can use neosporin underneath). Just be sure to cover the whole sore area and maybe use two. Cut the adhesive down so it doesn't get in your eyes. It's also a good idea to dogear one side for ease in removing.
It's the pressure of the nose piece of the mask that's rubbing your nose. Some masks like the Mirage Quattro have a forehead adjustment, but I haven't been able to relieve the pressure using that alone.
This is an ongoing problem for many of us. If you do a search here you might find more information. When your nose starts getting raw that's a real problem.
Oh, also there are nasal pillows instead of a nasal or FFM mask, or the Liberty from ResMed which is a hybrid, it covers the mouth and has nasal pillows.
Good luck, many of us go down this road, for me it's a chronic problem (I get tired of hearing "what's wrong with your nose").
Good Luck,
Mary Z.
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Permalink Reply by Linda Birnbaum on
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AYR saline nasal gel has been recommended on this forum. U can try a very small amount of vaseline as long as it does not disrupt the seal of the nasal pillows. Duoderm also makes a gel that you can get over the counter. Again only use small amounts so it does not disrupt the seal. Let me know how it goes.
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I've been using AYR with the same mask and thankfully have never had this problem. About ay drugstore carries it. I have read elsewhere on this forum that you shouldn't use vaseline products and would have to defer to the experts on that one. Assuming that the soreness is on the inside of your nostrils and not on the outside, is that correct?
Linda Birnbaum said:AYR saline nasal gel has been recommended on this forum. U can try a very small amount of vaseline as long as it does not disrupt the seal of the nasal pillows. Duoderm also makes a gel that you can get over the counter. Again only use small amounts so it does not disrupt the seal. Let me know how it goes.
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Using very small dabs of vaseline on the outside of the nares should be ok as long as it does not disrupt the seal. If the irritation is inside the nares then I would suggest the saline nasal gel. If nothing helps then I would suggest a regular nasal mask versus the nasal pillows. Everything about using CPAP seems to be a crap shoot. You just dont know what you are going to get. If the irritation is way up inside the nose then I would suggest upping your humidity slowly so you dont drown if you go too high. Again, a crap shoot.
Jan said:I've been using AYR with the same mask and thankfully have never had this problem. About ay drugstore carries it. I have read elsewhere on this forum that you shouldn't use vaseline products and would have to defer to the experts on that one. Assuming that the soreness is on the inside of your nostrils and not on the outside, is that correct?
Linda Birnbaum said:AYR saline nasal gel has been recommended on this forum. U can try a very small amount of vaseline as long as it does not disrupt the seal of the nasal pillows. Duoderm also makes a gel that you can get over the counter. Again only use small amounts so it does not disrupt the seal. Let me know how it goes.
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Permalink Reply by Bruce Allan on
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Thanks for all the quick responses. The irritation is just at the nasal opening, so it's neither inside the nostril nor outside. Right on the ridge. I am going to try loosening the strap tonight and see if it helps.
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When I have the nasal pillows adjusted properly, I can barely feel them. They should not be pushing or scrunching (a technical term ;-) your nose up. I would definitely loosen up the straps-- and really also try the AYR stuff, it also helps with the seal.
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Permalink Reply by Amy on
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It sounds like the pillows may not be the right size. The may be jsut a hair too big and are rubbing against your nares. It may also be that this type of mask may not be the best choice for you. Have you called the person who set up your machine? They are the ones who can get you refitted if need be. You do not want to put it off too long.
If you want to use a gel KY jelly is water soluable and easily available.
I think your best move is to talk to the sleep lab, sleep doc or DME company to get the relief and that will help you to be successful
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Amy good thought--these nasal pillows come in three or four sizes and I had to try two sizes before I settled on the small...and the way they fit most comfortably is a little counterintuitive for a newbie...ie...they don't need to be smashed inside your nose to provide a good fit and seal. And of course, talking to your on site professionals is always a good idea...
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Have you heard of the Sleep Comfort Care Pad? I work for SeQual Technologies & we are the distributor of this new product. It is flying off the shelves for this very reason. The gel pad is made of USP Grade Mineral Oil & is safe to place on pre-existing sores. I have heard numerous success stories about the pad. For more info, visit http://sequal.com/pa_accessories.php or ask your CPAP provider if they carry it. Hope this helps!!!
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You might try a thin coating of vaseline. It keeps my nose from chaffing.
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Permalink Reply by Linda Osborne on
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I don't know about the cream.. But I had to go to the next mask larger in order for it to help my nose....
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Permalink Reply by RL on
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Hi Bruce, I use a similar mask - ResMed Swift LT for Her, just over a month now. I have experienced what you are describing occasionally also. Most of the time, I can not even feel the nasal pillow, to the point that I have to check if it is still there. I found that the edge of the nostrils right where the little pillows go into the nostrils can become painful and sensitive. I have found it helps to put some type of cream on the area during the day. I like to use a cream with vegetable oils, aloe vera, and vitamin E. I also have tried some of the Ayr nasal gel (which is different than the Ayr nasal spray). It is a water based gel that seems to provide a protective barrier for a while when the the mask is on. I was not sure if this irritation was due simply to the frequent skin contact with the plastic or if a tiny amount of escaping air was actually chafing the skin there. Definitely try some type of cream in the day, and if you can, get the Ayr gel (@ drug store) to try at night. I also realized that the nasal pillow angle could be adjusted by moving it in the joint where it attaches to the head gear. This allows for a better fit while minimizing skin contact.
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