Finding it hard to breathe especially during your sleep? Make sure to consult your doctor, as this can be a sign of a respiratory condition. Depending on your specific case, a bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machine might be the key to treatment.
But what exactly are BiPAP machines? How do they work and how can one improve your breathing? Let’s find out.
Before Anything Else, What is BiPAP Therapy?
BiPAP therapy is a type of non-invasive ventilation for treating sleep-related breathing disorders. It doesn’t involve inserting tubes into a patient’s airways. BiPAP machines use pressurised air to keep them open during sleep.
How Do BiPAP Machines Work?
A BiPAP machine delivers air pressure through a mask fitted over your nose or both your nose and mouth. The pressure changes throughout your breathing cycle. Take a look at this breakdown:
When inhaling, the BiPAP machine delivers a higher air pressure to help your lungs inflate more easily. The pressure lowers as you exhale to allow air to flow out of your lungs easily. This bi-level pressure system (inhaling and exhaling) helps people with breathing problems take deeper and more regular breaths.
Who Needs BiPAP Therapy?
BiPAP therapy is used to treat various respiratory conditions, including:
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) – A lung disease that makes it hard to breathe
- Sleep apnea – A sleep disorder that causes breathing to stop and start repeatedly
- Neuromuscular diseases – Conditions that can weaken the muscles that are helping you breathe
- Heart failure – Can cause fluid buildup in the lungs, making breathing difficult
Benefits of BiPAP Therapy
To fully understand BiPAP machines, we need to learn more about BiPAP therapy. What are its benefits?
- Improved breathing – Helps keep your airways open, allowing for better flow of oxygen
- Reduced sleep apnea events – Helps prevent breathing pauses during sleep
- Better sleep quality – Allows you to sleep more soundly with easier breathing
- Reduced daytime fatigue – Helps improve sleep, which leads to having more energy during the day
- Improved quality of life – Helps you breathe easier and participate in more activities
Using a BiPAP Machine
If your doctor prescribes BiPAP therapy, they will set the specific air pressure levels on the machine for your needs. A technician will show you how to use it and fit the mask comfortably. One of the good things about BiPAP machines is that they operate quietly and can be used at home during sleep.
Living with BiPAP Therapy
As with anything new, it might take some time to adjust to wearing a BiPAP mask while sleeping. At some point it might feel uncomfortable, but you’ll get used to it eventually. Here are some tips:
- Practise wearing the mask while awake.
- Moisturise your lips and nose to prevent dryness.
- Keep the mask and machine clean.
- Talk to your doctor about any problems or concerns.
Final Word
Anyone struggling to breathe during sleep needs to consult a doctor. One of the safest and most effective treatments is BiPAP therapy, which involves a BiPAP machine. It helps improve sleep quality, reduce daytime fatigue and improve breathing.
Want to learn more about BiPAP machines? Reach out to your doctor or a reputable supplier!
