What Is the Gecko Nasal Pad?

Question: What Is the Gecko Nasal Pad?

If you use continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) to treat your sleep apnea, you are no doubt familiar with the difficulties you can encounter when using a mask. If the mask does not fit properly, you may find that you struggle with excessive air leaks. When you attempt to fix this by tightening the mask, you may start to get pressure sores on your face. Some of the materials used to make the masks may even cause a rash in those with sensitive skin or allergies. How can this situation be relieved? Can it be improved with the use of a Gecko Nasal Pad? What is the Gecko Nasal Pad?

Answer:

The Gecko Nasal Pad is a product from ResMed that is meant to address the difficulties encountered by a poorly-fitting CPAP mask. It may also provide relief if you suffer from skin sensitivity, including rashes or pressure sores from your mask. It's equipped with a soft gel pad that sits over the bridge of your nose, with extra padding to improve the seal and comfort of the mask. The Gecko Nasal Pad comes in two sizes: small and large. It's sold in packs of 10 by the durable medical companies that supply CPAP equipment.

If you find that your mask is fitting improperly or causing marks or sores on your face, you should speak with your durable medical equipment provider or sleep specialist. Your mask may not be fitted properly, and you may need to choose a new one. Ideally, a proper mask will leave only minimal marks on your face, and the material it's made from should not cause an allergic reaction. For those who need a little extra comfort, the Gecko Nasal Pad may be another option to consider.

_Source:

_{"Gecko Nasal Pads and Custom Headgear." ResMed. Accessed: September 2012.}