CPAP V BIPAP
CPAP vs. BiPAP: Understanding the Differences in Sleep Apnea Therapy
If you’ve recently been diagnosed with sleep apnea or are exploring therapy options, you’ve probably encountered the terms CPAP and BiPAP. Both are effective treatments, but understanding the key differences between them—and knowing which might be best for your needs—can make a world of difference in your therapy success. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we’re dedicated to helping you understand your options so you can choose the right therapy confidently.
Let’s walk through the differences between CPAP and BiPAP therapy, when each is recommended, and how our team can support you every step of the way.
CPAP vs. BiPAP – They Deliver Air Pressure in Different Ways
Both CPAP and BiPAP machines deliver pressurised air through a mask to keep your airway open during sleep, but they do so differently:
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) provides a single, steady stream of air pressure all night. It acts like a pneumatic splint, holding your throat open to prevent airway collapse—a key issue in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). CPAP is highly effective and often the first therapy recommended by sleep specialists for treating mild to moderate OSA.
Modern CPAP machines, like the ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet and Fisher & Paykel SleepStyle+ Auto, come with features such as heated humidification, ramp-up settings, and smartphone apps (e.g., ResMed’s myAir) that help you monitor your therapy progress.
BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) machines, on the other hand, provide two distinct pressure levels: a higher pressure when you inhale (IPAP) and a lower pressure when you exhale (EPAP). This dual-pressure support makes breathing more natural and comfortable—particularly if you have high pressure needs or find it difficult to exhale against a constant CPAP pressure.
The ResMed Lumis 100 VPAP S, for example, is an excellent BiPAP model, offering advanced comfort settings and the flexibility to adapt to your unique breathing patterns.
ResMed Lumis 150 VPAP ST-A 4G with Built-in Wireless Connectivity, ...
ResMed Lumis 150 VPAP ST with Built-in Wireless Connectivity, Humid...
Philips Respironics DreamStation Auto CPAP Machine with Humidifier
Each Machine Supports Different Sleep and Breathing Conditions
Choosing between CPAP and BiPAP often starts with understanding your sleep study results and the type of sleep apnea you have.
CPAP is generally recommended for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the airway collapses during sleep. CPAP prevents this collapse, maintaining continuous airflow and reducing apnoea events.
BiPAP may be recommended if:
- You have central sleep apnea (CSA), where the brain doesn’t consistently send signals to your breathing muscles.
- You have complex sleep apnea, which is a mix of obstructive and central events.
BiPAP’s dual pressures can also help patients who struggle with very high CPAP pressures (usually over 15 cm H₂O), making exhalation easier and improving therapy comfort.
Getting the Right Machine Starts with a Proper Sleep Assessment
A thorough sleep study—either in-lab or home-based—provides essential information about your breathing patterns, apnea severity, and any underlying health conditions. This assessment helps your sleep specialist determine:
- The type of apnea you have (OSA, CSA, or mixed).
- Your required pressure settings (measured in cm H₂O).
- Whether CPAP or BiPAP therapy best suits your needs.
At Sove CPAP Clinic, we believe that therapy success starts with a personalised approach. Our team of Respiratory and Sleep Physicians and CPAP Consultants will review your sleep study results, discuss your comfort preferences, and recommend the right device.
Even if you start with CPAP, ongoing reviews can help fine-tune your therapy. If your needs change, our team can seamlessly transition you to BiPAP, ensuring continuous, effective treatment.
Additional Considerations for Choosing CPAP vs. BiPAP
Choosing between CPAP and BiPAP therapy isn’t just about pressure settings and machine features—it’s also about how well each option fits into your daily life and therapy experience. While both devices can be highly effective in treating sleep apnea and other breathing conditions, understanding the finer details can make a significant difference in your long-term comfort and therapy success. Let’s explore some of the practical factors that may influence your decision, including mask fit, humidification, noise levels, travel, and budget considerations.
Mask Fit: Both CPAP and BiPAP use similar mask types—nasal, nasal pillows, and full-face. Getting the right fit prevents leaks and maximises comfort.
Humidification: Integrated heated humidifiers (like those in the AirSense 10 and AirCurve 10 VAuto) can reduce dryness and improve therapy comfort.
Noise Levels: Both machine types are designed to be quiet, but BiPAPs may produce slightly more motor noise due to their dual-pressure system.
Travel: Many modern CPAP and BiPAP machines are travel-friendly, with FAA approval, battery options, and lightweight designs for easy portability.
Budget: CPAP machines are typically more affordable and easier to set up. BiPAP machines, with their additional features, can be more costly and may require extra education and setup.
ALWAYS FOLLOW THE DIRECTIONS FOR USE. CPAP is used for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea treatment. When considering whether a sleep study or CPAP is right for you, speak to your doctor. Medicare criteria and T&Cs apply.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is a BiPAP quieter than a CPAP?
Both CPAP and BiPAP machines are engineered to operate quietly, but there can be subtle differences in sound levels between them. CPAP machines maintain a constant pressure throughout the night, which means their motor operates at a consistent, steady speed, producing a low, continuous hum. BiPAP machines, however, alternate between higher (IPAP) and lower (EPAP) pressures with each breath cycle.
This fluctuation can cause slight variations in motor speed and, occasionally, a faint noise when the device adjusts pressures—something some users might notice more during the exhalation phase. Modern BiPAP devices are designed with advanced noise-reduction technology, ensuring minimal disturbance even during pressure changes. Ultimately, noise differences are subtle, and most users find both machines quiet enough for a restful night’s sleep. If you’re concerned about sound, trying both devices during a clinic demonstration or home trial at Sove CPAP Clinic can help you decide which is more comfortable for you.
When should I switch from CPAP to BiPAP?
Switching from CPAP to BiPAP might be recommended in several situations where CPAP therapy isn’t meeting your needs. Firstly, if your sleep study indicates that you require higher pressures to maintain an open airway (typically above 15 cm H₂O), you may find it difficult to exhale comfortably against the constant pressure of CPAP. BiPAP’s dual-pressure system reduces this exhalation effort, making therapy more tolerable. Secondly, if your sleep study reveals central sleep apnea (CSA) or mixed apnea, where the brain’s signals to breathe are inconsistent, BiPAP’s advanced settings and backup respiratory rates can help stabilise your breathing. If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort, air hunger, or fragmented sleep despite consistent CPAP use, it’s essential to consult your sleep specialist. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we can arrange a BiPAP trial to determine whether it’s the right fit for your therapy.
When is it not recommended to use a BiPAP machine?
While BiPAP is highly effective for many patients, there are certain situations where it may not be the best choice. Additionally, BiPAP may not be appropriate for patients with facial injuries or abnormalities that prevent achieving a proper mask seal, as this can lead to air leaks and reduce the therapy’s effectiveness. A thorough assessment by a sleep or respiratory specialist is crucial before starting BiPAP therapy. At Sove CPAP Clinic, our team works closely with your doctor to ensure the most suitable therapy is chosen based on your individual medical history and condition.
At what point do I no longer need to use my CPAP machine?
CPAP therapy is highly effective at managing sleep apnea, but it doesn’t cure the underlying condition—meaning that for most patients, therapy is a lifelong commitment. However, there are specific cases where a patient might no longer require CPAP therapy. For example, significant weight loss, surgical interventions to address airway obstruction, or lifestyle changes that reduce apnea severity may reduce or eliminate the need for CPAP.
If you believe your condition has improved, it’s essential to have a follow-up sleep study (polysomnography) to objectively assess whether therapy can be discontinued safely. Stopping CPAP without medical supervision can lead to a return of symptoms, including excessive daytime sleepiness, cardiovascular strain, and other health risks. Always consult your sleep specialist before making any changes to your therapy. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we can coordinate with your doctor to review your progress and determine if ongoing CPAP therapy is necessary.
Should I sleep with my mouth open or closed with a CPAP machine?
Whether your mouth is open or closed can significantly impact CPAP therapy’s effectiveness. If you sleep with your mouth open while using a nasal mask or nasal pillows, you may experience air leaks, dry mouth, or reduced therapy effectiveness, as the pressurised air can escape through your mouth instead of reaching your airway. To address this, many patients opt for a full-face mask, which covers both the nose and mouth, ensuring consistent therapy even if you breathe through your mouth during sleep. Alternatively, a chin strap can be worn to gently keep the mouth closed, promoting nasal breathing. Nasal congestion or allergies can also influence your ability to breathe through your nose comfortably; treating these issues with nasal sprays or decongestants may help. At Sove CPAP Clinic, our consultants specialise in mask fitting and can help you find the most comfortable and effective option for your sleeping habits and therapy needs.