5 of the top CPAP machines for side sleepers

CPAP therapy is a successful treatment for people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). There is a range of CPAP machines and masks available, and we look at some that are suitable for side sleepers.
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Best for active sleepers: ResMed Swift FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear
ResMed Swift FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear
Best for a quiet mask: ResMed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask
ResMed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask
Best for more cushion sizes: Fisher & Paykel Brevida Nasal Pillow Mask
Fisher & Paykel Brevida Nasal Pillow Mask
Best for most CPAP machines: Eson 2 Nasal CPAP Mask
Eson 2 Nasal CPAP Mask
Best for smaller faces: Circadiance Sleep Weaver Advance Small Cloth Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear
Circadiance Sleep Weaver Advance Small Cloth Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder that occurs when a person’s airways become blocked. People with OSA may temporarily stop breathing in their sleep. It is a serious condition that requires treatment.
This article describes how CPAP therapy works and outlines some of the best mask options for side sleepers.
Who may use a CPAP mask?
CPAP masks are a method to reduce symptoms of OSA.
Often, the airways become blocked because soft tissues in the throat collapse and close when a person relaxes during sleep. According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, sleep apnea is as common as type 2 diabetes, affecting about 18 million people in the United States.
American Sleep Apnea Association
type 2 diabetes
Anyone can have sleep apnea, but males over 40 who have overweight are more likely to have the condition.
males over 40 who have overweight
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most common treatment for OSA.
Some of the best CPAP masks for side sleepers
Here are a few CPAP mask options for side sleepers.
Please note that the writer of this article has not tried these products. All information presented is purely research-based and correct at the time of publication.
Medical News Today follows a strict product selection and vetting process. Learn more here.
Learn more here
ResMed Swift FX Nasal Pillow CPAP Mask with Headgear
List price: $127
Size: one size fits most
Cushion material: silicone
The company states that this mask is suitable for active sleepers, people who experience claustrophobia, and those who have facial hair.
claustrophobia
The ResMed Swift is a simple, lightweight, ultra-quiet mask. The sleek mask is travel-friendly and features an improved pillow design for side sleepers. The nasal pillows help maintain a seal while accommodating nighttime movement.
A lycra-type material makes up the straps, and the unit fastens with handy Velcro points. The company also sells another version of the Swift FX with the female head shape in mind.
The company recommends replacing the nasal pillows once every six months.
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ResMed AirFit P10 Nasal Pillow Mask
List price: $118
Size: one size fits most
Cushion material: silicone
This mask is a lightweight unit that features QuieAir vent technology, making it quieter than other masks.
Flexible tubing allows for freedom of movement, and an elastic head strap keeps the key-clip nasal pillows in place. Straps are also adjustable.
The company recommends replacing the nasal pillows once every 3—6 months.
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Fisher & Paykel Brevida Nasal Pillow Mask
List price: $105
Size: one size fits most
Cushion material: silicone
This model is another nasal pillow mask with soft, adjustable straps.
It features an AirPillow seal, which prevents leaks and nasal irritation. The quiet unit also has a washable air diffuser.
The company includes four cushion sizes with each purchase: petite, small/medium, large, and extra large. This ensures that the mask will fit most faces.
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Eson 2 Nasal CPAP Mask
List price: $222.50
Size: small, medium, and large
Cushion material: silicone
The Eson 2 features a lighter frame than its predecessor. The sleeker headgear design is stretchier than before, which makes it easy to take on and off.
A washable diffuser dampens noise, so it will not disturb a person’s sleep partner.
The company recommends changing the nasal cushions every 3—6 months.
Additionally, Eson state that this mask is compatible with every CPAP machine except the AirMini.
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Circadiance Sleep Weaver Advance Small Soft Cloth Nasal CPAP Mask with Headgear
List price: $99
Size: small
Cushion material: cloth
Here is another lightweight CPAP mask option that features a soft cloth component to boost comfortability for wearers. The breathable material prevents welts and irritation but also creates a tight seal.
This mask is only available in size small, which may make it more suitable for people with smaller faces.
The company offers a 30-day guarantee for this accessory, which may help those trying out various mask options.
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Comparison chart
The following table compares the CPAP masks in this article.
ResMed Swift
ResMed AirFit
Fisher & Paykel
Eson
Circadiance
What to look for in a CPAP mask
A CPAP mask should fit comfortably, but it may take time for a person to get used to sleeping while wearing one.
sleeping while wearing one
There is a range of masks to suit different people. People who breathe through their mouths while asleep may choose a full mask or one with a strap, while nose-breathers may prefer nasal masks or models with nose cushions.
Many people stop using CPAP because they find it hard to sleep wearing a mask. This can be detrimental to health. Choosing a mask that does not interrupt a good night’s sleep is a crucial part of CPAP therapy compliance.
stop using CPAP
People who sleep on their side may encounter issues with CPAP therapy. If their pillow is too soft, the fabric can block mask ports, which can be dangerous.
Learn where to purchase firm pillows here.
Learn where to purchase firm pillows here.
Side sleepers may also experience mask movement during the night. Some masks also create uncomfortable pressure on the cheek for side sleepers.
Learn more about the best pillows for side sleepers here.
Learn more about the best pillows for side sleepers here.
Picking the right mask is a personal process and may require experimentation.
If side sleepers experience issues with mask-wearing, they can try special CPAP pillows. These pillows accommodate people wearing CPAP masks and help side and stomach sleepers find a comfortable sleep position.
Learn more about the best pillows for sleep apnea here.
Learn more about the best pillows for sleep apnea here.
How does CPAP work?
The American Lung Association state that CPAP is a very successful treatment option for people with obstructive sleep apnea.
American Lung Association
CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask attached to a device that pumps air into a person’s airway while they sleep. Straps keep the mask in place.
CPAP machines help ensure a steady flow of air enters a person’s airway. The air pressure from the device keeps the airway open and prevents it from collapsing in on itself.
CPAP machines do not cure sleep apnea. They help ease symptoms, but they do not address the root cause of the problem.
Typically, people purchase CPAP machines and accessories from medical supply companies.
According to a 2020 article, people with the following conditions may be unsuitable for CPAP therapy:
2020 article
anxiety
those in a coma or who are unable to breathe on their own
facial burns
those recovering from face, throat, or stomach surgery
nausea and vomiting
Lifestyle changes and home remedies
While CPAP therapy is the primary treatment for sleep apnea, it does not cure the condition.
In addition to a CPAP machine, the American Lung Association recommends the following lifestyle changes:
American Lung Association
losing weight
quitting smoking
avoiding certain sleep positions (e.g., lying on one’s back)
avoiding alcohol and other sedatives
An article in Neurology Clinical Practice indicates that mandibular advancement (MA) devices are an alternative to CPAP machines for people with mild sleep apnea.
Neurology Clinical Practice
An MA fits inside a person’s mouth and moves the jaw forward to help prevent airway obstruction.
Frequently asked questions about CPAP masks for side sleepers
Here we answer some common questions about these products.
People can sleep on their side while wearing a CPAP mask.
Some companies manufacture masks that may be more suitable for side sleepers. These masks may be less likely to cause discomfort due to the product pressing into the skin while a person is sleeping.
There are three types of CPAP masks: nasal pillow, nasal mask, and full face mask.
Nasal pillow masks have cushions that rest on the entrance to the nostrils. Nasal masks cover the nose, and a full face mask covers both the nose and the mouth.
People who tend to breathe through their mouths while sleeping may prefer to use full face masks.
Full face CPAP masks reduce the amount of air leakage and may return better results.
Summary
OSA is a potentially dangerous sleep condition that can cause a range of complications, including heart problems, fatigue, and headache.
CPAP is an effective treatment for OSA symptoms. However, finding the correct mask is an essential factor in sticking to this type of therapy.