Know about CPAP and BiPap Therapy

Differences Between CPAP, BiPAP Therapy for Sleep Apnea

If you have been diagnosed with sleep apnea, you have likely been introduced to at least one of the possible treatment options. The most common (and effective) therapy is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

You may be curious to know the difference between CPAP and BiPAP (or bi-level) therapy. In addition, what is adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV) therapy? Discover more information about these therapy device types and which one might be right for you.

BiPAP or Bilevel Therapy

A similar therapy is called bilevel, or BiPAP, but it differs in important ways. BiPAP is an abbreviation trademarked by the manufacturer Respironics for bilevel positive airway pressure. (It is called VPAP by the other major manufacturer, ResMed.)

The “bilevel” component refers to the fact that there are in fact two pressures, which the machine is able to alternate between. This allows you to breathe in with higher pressure and breathe out against a slightly lower pressure.

CPAP Therapy

The standard treatment for obstructive sleep apnea is the use of a machine that provides support to keep your airway open while you are asleep. This can be accomplished with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP).

In CPAP, a constant flow of pressurized room air is provided via a face mask. There are also portable travel CPAP devices available.

How does CPAP work to treat sleep apnea and what pressure is needed? The pressure setting of this airflow is often determined by a doctor based on your needs. This may be evaluated as part of a sleep study or can be estimated based on your risk factors, such as your anatomy and weight.