When is BiPAP or other non-invasive ventilation recommended instead of CPAP?

BiPAP, or bilevel positive airway pressure, is a type of non-invasive ventilation that is used when CPAP, or continuous positive airway pressure, is not enough. BiPAP provides two levels of pressure: a higher one when you breathe in and a lower one when you breathe out.

When to Use BiPAP:

1. Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS): People with OHS have trouble breathing deeply, and BiPAP can help them breathe better at night by supporting their breathing efforts.
2. Complex Sleep Apnea: Some people have a mix of obstructive and central sleep apnea. BiPAP can adjust to these changes and provide the right support.
3. Acute Respiratory Failure: In emergency situations, like sudden breathing failure, BiPAP can quickly help improve breathing without needing a tube down the throat.

BiPAP is chosen over CPAP when more tailored breathing support is needed, especially if there are different breathing problems that change over time. This makes it useful for people who need more than just steady pressure to keep their airways open.