Comparing BiPAP vs. CPAP Machine

When it comes to understanding the difference between BiPAP and CPAP machines, there is essentially one main difference:

CPAP always applies the same amount of pressure, while BiPAP applies a higher pressure when you inhale.

The variants' abbreviations stand for:

CPAP: Continuous positive airway pressure
BiPAP: Bilevel positive airway pressure

CPAP sleep therapy is the most common form of positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Some sleep apnea patients, however, require BiPAP therapy, which offers two pressure settings.

How To Know If I Should Use a BiPAP vs. CPAP Machine

When you get a sleep apnea diagnosis, your doctor will instruct you on what type of PAP therapy you need. In most cases, your doctor may recommend using CPAP therapy if you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). BiPAP therapy is most commonly prescribed to treat central sleep apnea (CAS) but can also treat:

OSA if patients respond poorly to CPAP
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Congestive heart failure
Parkinson's disease
ALS

BiPAP machine models can vary in providing inhale and exhale positive airway pressure (IPAP and EPAP). Some machines require this transition to be timed, but others transition based on the user's breathing patterns.

Similarities of BiPAP and CPAP

While both are non-invasive forms of PAP therapies, CPAP and BiPAP have few similarities. However, one convenient similarity is that BiPAP and CPAP machines use the same masks, hoses, and accessories.

Differences between BiPAP and CPAP

As already noted, the difference in diagnosis is important in using BiPAP and CPAP machines. But there are other differences as well.

Different Price Points

CPAP machines, for the most part, are substantially cheaper than BiPAP machines. CPAP machines can cost as little as $350, while BiPAP machines usually start at a minimum cost of $800.

Insurance Coverage

CPAP is commonly covered by insurance companies, whereas BiPAP therapy is occasionally covered. Further, BiPAP typically requires proof of CPAP therapy not being adequate, especially in the case of OSA.

Size Options

Unlike BiPAP machines, CPAP devices come in various sizes.

Explore Different CPAP and BiPAP Machine Options

At GoCPAP.com, we offer many brand and model options for both CPAP and BiPAP users. Ship BiPAP machines and CPAP machines today!