The Difference Between a CPAP, BiPAP & NIV

If you or a loved one has breathing or sleep issues such as sleep apnea, you may be curious about the difference between various machines. Whether you’re using a CPAP or BiPAP machine or have even experienced non-invasive ventilation, this is a great blog to learn more about each machine, its benefits and why they’re used.

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)

  • Why it’s used: A CPAP machine is used to help individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, which causes interruptions or pauses in your breathing as you sleep.

  • What it does: CPAP machines provide a steady flow of oxygen into your nose and mouth as you sleep, allowing you to breathe normally.

  • Different types: The actual device is usually the same across the board, but CPAP masks vary. There are full face masks that cover both your nose and mouth, nasal masks which fit over just your nose or nasal pillow masks which are the most lightweight and minimal kind.

  • Benefits: There are countless benefits to using a CPAP machine. They help you feel more alert during the day, control your high blood pressure, lower your risk of a stroke or heart attack and much more.

BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure)

  • Why it’s used: A BiPAP machine is used for the same reasons as a CPAP machine – it’s a form of therapy for those with sleep apnea.

  • What it does: The difference between the two is that CPAP machines deliver a steady stream of air while BiPAP machines measure the user’s breaths and increase air pressure depending on if they need air or not.

  • Different types: Just like CPAP machines, there are various kinds of masks that can be used. Some machines have different features including humidifiers or heated options.

  • Benefits: BiPAP users love the fact that the machine doesn’t deliver continuous airflow like a CPAP machine does. Rather, it delivers the amount of air that’s ideal for your unique breathing patterns.

NIV (Non-Invasive Ventilation)

  • Why it’s used: NIV is most often used in situations where the patient has respiratory issues or failure. In the acute setting, NIV is used in type 2 respiratory failure such as a flare-up or worsening case of COPD.

  • What it does: Like BiPAP machines, NIV delivers air pressure depending on the patient’s breathing patterns.

  • Different types: There are two main types of NIV: non-invasive positive-pressure (NIPPV) and negative-pressure ventilation (NPV).

  • Benefits: Non-invasive ventilation is great in comparison to invasive ventilation because there’s no need for intubation. This leads to shorter hospital stays, easier maintenance and fewer fatalities.

While all three items we discussed are forms of respiratory support, they’re all unique and hold their own benefits. If you want to learn more about what type of respiratory support is best for you, feel free to contact us and we’re happy to help.

VGM Forbin