A Brief Guide To BiPAP Machines
If you are someone who suffers from sleep apnea, or you think you might have the condition, you possibly have heard the name of devices such as CPAP and BiPAP machines. CPAP machines are the most well known, but BiPAP technology works better for some people. In this post, we will answer common questions regarding BiPAP machines to help you learn more.
What is BiPAP?
BiPAP stands for Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure. BiPAP machines serve as a non-invasive therapy for sleep apnea, a widespread sleep disorder that affects a large number of people all around the world. The machine helps sleep apnea sufferers breathe at night by keeping pressurized airflow going through into their lungs by way of a nasal mask. BiPAP and CPAP machines are similar treatment options, but have one main difference – CPAP uses a single pressure setting, while BiPAP employs two pressures; an inhale pressure, and an exhale pressure.
What is a BiPAP Machine?
A BiPAP machine is a prescribed medical device that is used to help sleep apnea patients improve their sleep at night. It includes the main unit, which pressurizes air, a humidifier, which helps incorporate moisture to the air, a tube, and a mask. Sleep apnea sufferers who use BiPAP machines will put on a face mask or nasal mask at night, which is attached to the BiPAP unit. Pressurized air flows through the tube & mask , helping the patient breath steadily & get an improved night’s sleep.
Visually, there’s little difference between BiPAP & CPAP machines. Both boast the same basic design & attachments. Again, the main dissimilarity is simply in how the machine controls air pressure.
What are the benefits of a BIPAP Machine?
Patients who have been diagnosed with sleep apnea may experience the following benefits from BiPAP treatment:
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced snoring
- Decreased daytime sleepiness/fatigue
- Improved focus
- Better moods
- Lower blood pressure
- Reduced risk of serious medical conditions
- Generally, works better than CPAP for patients with high-pressure settings.
If interested in learning more about BiPAP machines and their benefits, talk to your local medical supplier or doctors from your sleep center. If you need help finding either of these, click here.