CPAP Vs BILEVEL
CPAP vs. Bi-level PAP: Understanding the Differences and Choosing the Right Therapy
If you’ve been diagnosed with sleep apneas or another respiratory condition, you may have heard about CPAP and Bi-level PAP (BiPAP) machines. Both therapies are highly effective, but they work in different ways—and understanding these differences is essential for selecting the right treatment for your unique needs. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we’re here to guide you through the nuances of each option so you can feel confident and supported in your therapy journey.
CPAP Delivers One Constant Pressure for Both Inhalation and Exhalation
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is the most commonly prescribed treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). CPAP machines deliver a steady, continuous stream of pressurised air through a mask, acting like a pneumatic splint to keep the airway open throughout the night. This constant pressure helps prevent the collapse of soft tissues in the throat—a key feature of OSA—and effectively reduces or eliminates apnea events.
Modern CPAP devices, such as the ResMed AirSense 11 AutoSet, feature innovative comfort options like ramp-up settings that start at a lower pressure and gradually increase to your prescribed level, helping you fall asleep more easily. Integrated heated humidifiers combat dryness and irritation, particularly in cooler climates or if you’re prone to nasal congestion. Advanced data tracking via apps like myAir allows you to monitor your therapy progress, gain insights, and share your sleep data with your sleep specialist.
If you’re new to CPAP therapy, an auto-adjusting (APAP) machine is often a great starting point. These devices automatically vary the pressure throughout the night to match your breathing needs, improving comfort and reducing the feeling of breathlessness that some people experience with fixed-pressure CPAP.
Bi-level PAP Delivers Two Pressure Levels: One for Inhaling, One for Exhaling
Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machines take sleep therapy a step further by providing two distinct pressure settings: a higher one during inhalation (IPAP) to support your breathing muscles and keep your airway open, and a lower one during exhalation (EPAP) to make breathing out easier and more natural. This dual-pressure system is particularly helpful for patients who find it difficult to exhale against the constant pressure of a CPAP machine.
- BiPAP therapy is often recommended for patients with:
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): where the brain intermittently fails to signal the body to breathe. - Complex Sleep Apnea: a combination of obstructive and central apneas that might emerge during CPAP therapy.
Machines like the ResMed AirCurve 10 VAuto are designed with comfort and adaptability in mind. They can automatically adjust pressures based on your breathing needs and include features like adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV) for managing complex sleep apnea, heated humidification to prevent dryness, and quiet motor technology for a restful night’s sleep.
If you consistently wake up feeling unrefreshed, find yourself gasping for air, or have been told you stop breathing for long periods—even with CPAP—discuss the possibility of BiPAP therapy with your sleep specialist. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we can arrange an in-clinic or home trial to ensure you’re on the most suitable therapy for your condition.
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
CPAP vs. Bi-level Devices Differ in Complexity and Cost
While both CPAP and BiPAP machines aim to maintain open airways during sleep, they differ significantly in complexity, cost, and clinical applications.
Complexity:
CPAP machines are generally simpler to operate, with a single pressure setting that’s easy to manage for most users. This makes them particularly user-friendly for first-time patients. Many modern CPAP machines feature intuitive menus, auto-start functions, and mobile apps that simplify usage.
BiPAP machines, on the other hand, come with additional settings—including separate IPAP and EPAP levels, adjustable rise times, and often more sophisticated data tracking. These features make them highly customisable but may require more education and support to set up effectively.
Cost:
CPAP devices are typically more affordable, with prices ranging from $500 to $1,000, depending on the model and features. BiPAP machines are more expensive due to their dual-pressure capabilities and advanced settings, often ranging from $1,700 to $3,000. This price difference is something to consider, especially if you’re budgeting for masks and accessories as well.
When deciding between CPAP and BiPAP, it’s essential to consider your sleep study results, your comfort with therapy, and your lifestyle factors. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we recommend trialling both devices (if clinically appropriate) to see which therapy feels more natural and sustainable for you.
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.
FAQs
Is a BiPAP machine a ventilator?
No, a BiPAP machine is not a ventilator. While both devices support breathing, they work very differently. A BiPAP machine is a non-invasive therapy designed to assist spontaneous breathing by delivering two pressure levels: a higher one for inhalation (IPAP) and a lower one for exhalation (EPAP). This helps maintain airway patency and reduce the work of breathing.
A ventilator, on the other hand, is a more complex medical device typically used in critical care settings. It can fully take over the breathing process by delivering air directly into the lungs through a tube placed in the airway (intubation) or through a tracheostomy. Ventilators are essential for patients who cannot breathe on their own, such as those under anaesthesia or with severe respiratory failure.
Does a BiPAP machine help clear the lungs?
A BiPAP machine doesn’t physically “clear” the lungs like a suction device would, but it can significantly aid in improving ventilation and gas exchange, which helps the lungs function more effectively.
By delivering higher pressure during inhalation (IPAP), BiPAP assists in inflating the lungs more fully. The lower exhalation pressure (EPAP) then allows for easier exhalation, reducing hyperinflation and promoting more complete gas exchange in the alveoli. This combination can improve oxygenation, reduce CO₂ retention, and help patients breathe more comfortably, especially during sleep.
Is BiPAP better than CPAP?
BiPAP isn’t automatically “better” than CPAP—it’s different, and whether it’s the best choice depends on your individual needs. CPAP therapy is the gold standard for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), offering continuous, steady air pressure that effectively prevents airway collapse in most patients. It’s straightforward, highly effective, and easier for most new users to manage.
BiPAP therapy, on the other hand, is particularly beneficial for patients who:
- Require higher pressure settings (often above 15 cm H₂O) that can make exhaling on CPAP uncomfortable.
- Have conditions like central sleep apnea (CSA) or complex sleep apnea, where the brain’s signals to breathe are inconsistent.
For these patients, BiPAP’s two pressure levels make therapy more comfortable and effective. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we can help you determine which device—CPAP or BiPAP—is right for your condition, comfort, and lifestyle.
Does Medicare pay for CPAP machines?
In Australia, Medicare does not directly cover the cost of purchasing a CPAP machine. However, some financial assistance may be available through state-based health programs or for eligible patients under the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA). For example, residents of New South Wales may be able to access CPAP equipment through EnableNSW, which supports patients who meet clinical criteria.
Some private health insurance funds may also offer partial rebates for CPAP machines and accessories, depending on your level of cover. To understand your specific entitlements, it’s best to check with your health insurer and local health services.
Are Bi-level and BiPAP the same?
Yes, Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (Bi-level PAP) and BiPAP refer to the same type of therapy. BiPAP is commonly used in sleep medicine to describe bilevel and any device that delivers two levels of airway pressure: one for inhalation and a lower one for exhalation.
Both BiPAP and Bi-level PAP therapies are designed to make breathing easier by supporting the lungs in both phases of the breathing cycle. This is particularly helpful for patients who find CPAP therapy uncomfortable or insufficient for their needs. At Sove CPAP Clinic, we use the terms interchangeably and can help you understand how BiPAP might fit into your therapy plan.
What are the ways to get a CPAP machine for free in Australia?
While Medicare doesn’t directly fund CPAP machines in Australia, there are several ways you might be able to access a device at no cost or a reduced price:
State-Based Equipment Programs: In some states, including New South Wales, programs like EnableNSW provide equipment to eligible patients who meet certain clinical criteria.
Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA): If you are a DVA cardholder and meet eligibility requirements, you may be entitled to fully funded CPAP equipment.
Hospital Loan Programs: Some hospitals and sleep clinics offer short-term loan equipment to patients who are starting therapy and awaiting funding approval.
Private Health Insurance: While not completely free, some policies partially cover the cost of CPAP machines. It’s important to check with your insurer about inclusions, exclusions, and any out-of-pocket costs.