How to Choose Between CPAP and BiPAP Machines

Have you recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea? If so, you have multiple treatment options to turn to. Two of the most common ones are CPAP and BiPAP machine therapies. Unless you’re familiar with them, choosing can be a challenge.

To make your decision easier, our team at CPAP Liquidators has put together a guide to the difference between CPAP and BiPAP. Read on to learn everything you need to know! Then, visit our website to shop our selection of refurbished CPAP and BiPAP equipment.

What Is a CPAP Machine?

A CPAP machine is used to treat patients with sleep apnea and premature newborn babies. It delivers a single level of air pressure into the user’s airways to keep them breathing. In some cases, your insurance will cover some or all of the cost.

There are a variety of CPAP accessories available, too. For example, you’ll need to get some kind of mask for it, like a nasal or full-face one. If you want to take it while traveling, you can consider investing in a portable CPAP battery.

What Is a BiPAP Machine?

A BiPAP machine is for patients with COPD, ALS, and forms of sleep apnea that don’t respond well to CPAP. Most people find this treatment easier to adjust to because there are two different air pressure levels; it feels like breathing naturally. If you’re not eligible for CPAP, your insurance may cover some or all of your BiPAP treatment.

BiPAP machines are more advanced than CPAP ones because they can have several different settings. You can adjust yours to match your natural breathing pattern, choose a random one, or time it yourself. You’ll need to get a mask for this treatment as well.

What Are the Key Differences?

CPAP and BiPAP machines are incredibly similar. However, there are distinct differences that set them apart. The biggest is the fact that BiPAP is preferred for patients that don’t benefit from CPAP. Unless this is the case for you, it’s unlikely that you’ll need BiPAP.

Also, remember that a BiPAP machine is easier to adjust to due to having two air pressure levels to switch between. And, because BiPAP has more features, it is more expensive than CPAP. 

Which One Is Right for You?

So, should you choose a CPAP or BiPAP machine? Ultimately, that decision is up to you and your doctor. While discussing your treatment options, ask which one suits the severity of your condition. Additionally, you’ll be able to learn more about each one. Even though these treatments are very similar, their key differences play a role in the one you need.

If you’re dealing with sleep apnea, you can choose the treatment route you’re interested in. The two that you’ll most likely get offered are CPAP or BiPAP. A couple of external factors influence the one you’ll go home with, but so will your discussion with your doctor.

Once you know which one is right for you, turn to CPAP Liquidators for your new and refurbished CPAP and BiPAP machine needs. If you have any questions, contact us right away for support!