What is BiPAP

The main unit of a BiPAP machine delivers pressured air to the user, at 2 different pressure settings - one for inhalation and another for exhalation. It does the work of assisting the user in respiration or remove any obstructions in the airway. BiPAP machines of different modes are prescribed by the physician, as per user’s medical history and disease requirement. The BiPAP machine is connected to a mask with the help of a tube. This BiPAP mask is applied on the user to deliver therapy pressure. Some machines also have the additional attachment of a humidifier for a more comfortable therapy experience.

Many users experience significant drying out of their nostrils, mouths, and throats during BiPAP therapy. Humidification adds moisture to the air being blown into your airway. This helps to create a more comfortable therapy experience for the user. Enhanced therapy comfort also results in better compliance or usage of the BiPAP therapy.

A CPAP machine is recommended for patients who diagnosed with Obstructive Sleep Apnea and provides one continuous pressure to keep airways open. A BiPAP machine has the functionality of BiLevel or 2 different pressure settings for inhalation and exhalation. It is recommended incase of more complexed forms of respiratory disorders or for those with higher pressure requirements.

Most first time BiPAP users experience this sensation. It normally takes 1 to 2 weeks for you to adjust to the pressure on your machine. If you still feel your BiPAP pressure is too high, you must contact your device expert before any adjustments can be made. Patience is extremely important while you adjust to your pressure.

BiPAP machines of different modes are required for different disease profiles or medical history. Further, the duration of your BiPAP requirement may also vary depending on your medical condition. The BiPAP mode suitable for your requirement is on prescribed by your physician, as per user’s medical history.

All BiPAP devices store data from each therapy session. Some devices record limited parameters like AHI, Usage Hours and Mask leakage while some others record graphical data and other parameters like Tidal Volume, Minute Ventilation and other respiratory events as well. New age BPAP show patient friendly data on smartphones while wirelessly transmitting clinical data to providers for continuous monitoring and assistance. These features help a user to assess if the device is working optimally.