CPAP VS BiPaP
Difference between a BiPAP and a CPAP
BiPAP and CPAP machines are both used for the treatment of sleep apnoea. However, there are differences in their functions. A CPAP machine delivers continuous positive pressure to help control sleep apnoea. This pressure is fixed and is based on the results of the sleep study of the patient. There are CPAP machines with auto adjusting pressure.
BiPAP machine is considered more technologically advanced and is recommended for people who cannot tolerate CPAP machine treatment. The inhalation pressure of a BiPAP is similar to a CPAP but the exhalation pressure or EPAP is not. For some, it is difficult to breathe against constant pressure and this is where BiPAP is helpful as exhalation on this machine has a lower pressure to allow patient to breathe easily. The drop in exhalation pressure is most helpful for CPAP patients prescribed with a 15 cm pressure or higher. BiPAP exhalation pressure can go down as low as 4cm, thus preventing straining of the patient and allow a more natural and comfortable experience.
Which Is Better?
One is not better or worse than the other. The CPAP Vs BIPAP debate cannot be answered as they simply suit individual needs in different ways. Some prefer the constant pressure whilst others prefer the bilevel pressure.
This is dependent upon what is right for the patient, and the severity of their sleep apnea.
A sleep physician will be able to recommend the best machine for you, and will set the pressure level to suit your needs.
CPAP | BiPAP |
Stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure | Stands for Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure |
It continuously provides a single airway pressure to the patient. However, the set value can be changed as per the requirement of the patient. | It continuously provides two airway pressures to the patient. One is during the inspiration, while the other one is during expiration. |
CPAP is useful for the treatment of patients with normal breathing problems such as sleep apnea. | If the condition of the patient becomes much more complex, then BiPAP is better. |
Since a single high positive pressure is applied continuously, expiration might be difficult. | Since a lower airway pressure is applied during expiration, breathing becomes much easier. |
It is cheaper to purchase | It is much more expensive in comparison to the CPAP. |
