Did you know it's estimated that only 7% of people sleep on their stomachs? While stomach sleeping is one of the rarest sleeping positions, there are a multitude of CPAP mask options available for obstructive sleep apnea patients who prefer to sleep on their stomachs.
With continuous positive airway pressure, or CPAP therapy, finding the right mask can be difficult at first. To help with your mask selection process, we’re sharing which CPAP masks are most popular among stomach sleepers.
IN THIS ARTICLE:
Can A Stomach Sleeper Have Sleep Apnea?
What Type Of CPAP Mask Is Best For Stomach Sleepers?
What Are The 5 Best CPAP Masks For Stomach Sleepers?
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Can A Stomach Sleeper Have Sleep Apnea?
Yes, individuals who sleep on their stomachs can have sleep apnea. In fact, you can be diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea regardless of your preferred sleeping position.
However, it’s important to note that some sleeping positions are better for sleep apnea patients than others. Side sleeping, for example, is considered the best sleeping position for individuals who have sleep apnea because research shows it can help reduce breathing disruptions. On the other hand, back sleepers may experience worsened sleep apnea symptoms, due to a higher risk of airway obstructions.
So if side sleeping is the best position and back sleeping is the worst for sleep apnea, where does that leave stomach sleeping?
Unfortunately, there is not a lot of research to suggest whether or not stomach sleeping is beneficial for sleep apnea patients. According to Medical News Today, stomach sleeping may be a good option for some individuals with sleep apnea, but it may not be for others. Ultimately, when determining which is the best for you, consider which sleeping position offers you the most comfort.
What Type Of CPAP Mask Is Best For Stomach Sleepers?
For active stomach sleepers, the best CPAP mask is typically one that has a low-profile with minimal contact and allows for freedom of movement. This is good news because there are a variety of mask options out there that fit this description!
More specifically, there are 3 different types of CPAP masks: full face, nasal, and nasal pillow masks. A full face mask covers both the nose and mouth, a nasal mask covers just the nose, and a nasal pillow mask uses soft cushions that insert into the nostrils.
When determining the right CPAP mask for you, your sleeping position is not the only factor that should be considered. Your sleep specialist will likely take into consideration a variety of factors, including your typical sleeping position, your facial features, whether you are a nose or mouth breather, whether you experience claustrophobia or not, and if you have facial hair. With all of these in mind, it becomes easier for your healthcare provider to narrow down the best mask for you.
What Are The 5 Best CPAP Masks For Stomach Sleepers?
While this is not an exhaustive list, here are 5 CPAP masks that are popular among stomach sleeping CPAP users:
Fisher & Paykel Solo Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask
With soft silicone pillows, Fisher & Paykel’s Solo Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask offers both a secure and comfortable mask fit, making it perfect for stomach and active sleepers alike. This mask also incorporates AutoFit technology, which means you can stretch the mask headgear over your head and onto your face without having to adjust any straps. Additionally, it features a minimalist design and provides an open field of vision, which is great for individuals who wear glasses.
ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal CPAP Mask
If you are prescribed a higher pressure setting, a nasal CPAP mask may be better than a nasal pillow mask. In that case, we recommend the ResMed AirFit N30i Nasal CPAP mask, which utilizes top of the head tubing to maximize freedom of movement all night long. It also includes a lightweight nasal cushion, and it boasts a whisper-quiet operation, making it perfect for patients new to CPAP treatment.
Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask
The Philips Respironics DreamWear Nasal CPAP Mask offers a secure mask seal and allows you to sleep comfortably in any position: stomach, back or side. This mask also features top of the head tubing with a hollow frame, which makes it easier to move freely while sleeping. Finally, it offers minimal contact to help prevent any redness or skin irritation.
Fisher & Paykel Evora Full Face CPAP Mask
If you suffer from chronic nasal congestion, a full face mask may be a better option for you. One full face mask that is great for stomach sleepers is the Fisher & Paykel Evora Full Face CPAP Mask. This mask features a minimal design; the mask cushion sits under the nose and over the mouth, making it a great choice for mouth breathers. It uses soft, thin silicone to maintain a secure seal and maximum comfort.
ResMed AirFit F30i Full Face CPAP Mask
With top of the head tubing and a 360° hose connector that swivels, this full face mask is another solid choice for stomach sleepers! Offering both a comfortable fit and secure seal, the ResMed AirFit F30i Full Face CPAP mask comes with an UltraCompact cushion that sits below the nose and over the mouth. This mask also includes magnetic clips making it simple to put on and take off.
And guess what? All 5 of these masks are available through insurance with Aeroflow Sleep! To see if your insurance is in-network with us and to get an estimated cost through your insurance, start by filling out our online qualify form below.
At Aeroflow Sleep, we offer a variety of different masks, machines, and supplies all through insurance; so what are you waiting for? Check your eligibility today!
Need Fresh CPAP Supplies?
From CPAP machines and masks to tubing and filters, Aeroflow Sleep covers your sleep apnea essentials up to 100% through insurance. Plus, you'll be paired with a dedicated Sleep Specialist, get access to our user-friendly patient portal, and receive world-class resources like our AI mask-fitting technology.
About the Author
Emily Callahan is a former educator turned marketing professional who is passionate about helping others. She is a skilled content writer, and she enjoys making complex information easier to understand. She is interested in using tools like writing and social media to not only educate, but to also help others feel and live better too. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her friends and family, being outside, and reading.
Information provided in blogs should not be used as a substitute for medical care or consultation.
References
Singh, Akanksha. “A Guide to Healthy Sleep Positions.” News Medical, News Medical, 27 Apr. 2022, www.news-medical.net/health/A-Guide-to-Healthy-Sleep-Positions.aspx#:~:text=Only%20about%207%25%20of%20the,is%20not%20advised%20by%20professionals.
Pinna, Gian Domenico et al. “Differential impact of body position on the severity of disordered breathing in heart failure patients with obstructive vs. central sleep apnoea.” European journal of heart failure vol. 17,12 (2015): 1302-9. doi:10.1002/ejhf.410
Sherrell, Zia. “What Is the Best Sleep Position for Sleep Apnea?” Edited by Nick Villalobos, Medical News Today, Healthline Media, 17 Sept. 2024, www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/best-sleep-position-for-sleep-apnea#on-your-side.
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