CPAP Mask Strap magnets...

Has anyone heard about this and better yet has anyone discussed this with their cardiologist?        

The straps on CPAP face mask have magnets as connectors.  So far what I have read is that as long as the magnet stays at least two inches away from you pacemaker you are good.  I am not sure I can guarrantee it always stays that far away while sleeping.  I hope so.  I mean if I bend my neck to the left it may get close.

3 Comments

I shouldn't worry about it

by crustyg - 2022-10-17 11:25:26

Yes, the magnets are quite powerful but in my experience they are quite a long way from your PM.  It needs a fairly powerful magnet placed directly over the PM to initiate the 'magnet response' of your device.

I think you'd need to place your left ear right on top of your shoulder to get even near 2inches.

Actually.....

by Beni - 2022-10-17 12:04:54

The tech from Abbott (St. Jude Medical) mentioned the magnets to me (since she was aware I had sleep apnea and used a CPAP machine) and suggested I remove them from my mask headgear and replace with non-magnetic clips, if possible.  

I replaced them with the button type clip I had from before.

Phillips Respironics issued a notice about the possible issues.  They are up to their armpits in alligators these days due to issues with some of their CPAP machines.  So, it is entirely possible they are being extremely cautious.  But when the tech from Abbott mentioned it,  that put a bit of different slant on the topic.

Maybe not a big deal but if it provides some peace of mind (and you have alternatives kicking around), why not?  Completely up to you.

Plenty of straps without magnets

by LondonAndy - 2022-10-18 00:38:45

Whilst I would be inclined to agree with Crustyg and not worry about it, I must admit I was surprised by the post - I have used a CPAP for over 5 years and never had a mask with magnetic strap magnets. So if concerned, choose a different model.

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