BiPAP

What is BiPAP machine?

BiPAP – Bi-level positive airway pressure machine. It sends a steady flow of pressurized air into your nose and mouth as you sleep. The Pressure is higher during inhalation and lower during exaltation. This keeps your airways open and helps you breathe normally. BiPAP is a form of non-invasive ventilation (NIV) therapy used to facilitate breathing

How does a BiPAP machine work?

BiPAP is a device used to treat sleep apnea. It takes air (not oxygen) from the ambient, pressurizes it, and delivers it to the patient via a mask (usually an oro-nasal mask). This removes the blockage from the user’s airways so that they can breathe without any disruption during the night, resulting in good sleep.

When to use BiPAP?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD)
Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS)
Obstructive sleep apnea
Central sleep apnea
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

How does a BiPAP machine differ from a CPAP machine?

BiPAP and CPAP machines have a lot in common. They both deliver positive air pressure (PAP) via a tabletop device connected to a tube and a mask. They can sometimes be used to treat the same conditions.
The main difference between a BPAP and a CPAP machine is how the air pressure is delivered:
BiPAP machines deliver two levels of air pressure.
CPAP machines deliver a continuous level of air pressure.

BiPAPs are the preferred treatment for some people with COPD as people with COPD tend to have trouble exhaling.

Components of a BiPAP machine

Base Unit (electronics – motor/ turbine, display, buttons)
Humidifier
Tube
Mask
Adaptor (power supply)
Air Filter

Types of Masks

Full face mask with support on forehead
Full face mask without support on forehead

Types of BiPAP

BiPAP Auto
BiPAP ST
BiPAP ST IVAPS

Types of Tube

Standard BiPAP Tube (non-heated)
Climate Control Tube (heated) – Premium Models of BiPAP

Pros of a BiPAP machine

Life-Saving
Noninvasive. This means it doesn’t need to be inserted inside your body. Noninvasive ventilation has fewer risks than invasive ventilation.
It can help to transition you off a life support system

Cons of using a BiPAP machine

Discomfort and difficulty falling asleep, especially in the beginning Dry mouth (solved by BiPAP machine with a humidifier)
Skin irritation or sores where the mask touches the face (good quality reusable masks minimize irritation chances)
The pros of BiPAP machine outweigh the cons. In general BiPAP machines are not covered by health insurance

Precautions While using BiPAP

Maintaining a proper power supply (use voltage stabilizers)
Change & clean filters regularly
Change water in the humidifier bottle regularly
Read the user manual provided by the manufacturer carefully

Some popular & reliable models

Oxymed BiPAP Air Smart Auto – Learn More

Oxymed BiPAP Air Smart ST – Learn More

RESMED LUMIS 100 VPAP ST (BIPAP) 28126 – Learn More