BiPAP and CPAP are not interchangeable, and neither is something to select yourself. The machine type and the pressures are prescribed by the treating doctor, usually after a sleep study or during treatment for a respiratory condition. What we do is supply the right machine, set it to the prescription, fit the mask properly, and show the patient how to live with it.
The difference, plainly
- CPAP delivers one continuous pressure. Most commonly prescribed for obstructive sleep apnoea, to hold the airway open during sleep.
- BiPAP delivers two pressures — higher on breathing in, lower on breathing out. Prescribed where a patient needs breathing support rather than just an open airway, such as in some COPD, neuromuscular and respiratory-failure cases.
The mask decides whether it works
Most people who abandon CPAP do so because of the mask, not the machine. An ill-fitting mask leaks, dries the eyes, marks the face and wakes the patient repeatedly — and the therapy then does nothing.
- Nasal mask — covers the nose only. Comfortable for patients who breathe through the nose.
- Nasal pillows — minimal contact, suits patients who feel closed in.
- Full face mask — covers nose and mouth. Needed for mouth breathers and for many BiPAP patients.
We fit the mask at delivery with the machine running, because a mask that seals with the air off may leak badly under pressure. If it is uncomfortable after a few nights, tell us — a different size or style usually fixes it.
Living with it
- Humidification makes a large difference to dryness and nose irritation. Use distilled water and empty the chamber daily.
- Daily cleaning of mask and cushion, and weekly cleaning of tubing and chamber.
- Filters checked and changed on schedule — Bangalore dust clogs them faster than the manual assumes.
- Power — keep it on a stable point, and think about what happens during a cut if the patient depends on it nightly.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between BiPAP and CPAP?
CPAP delivers one continuous pressure, most commonly for obstructive sleep apnoea. BiPAP delivers two pressures — higher on inhaling, lower on exhaling — and is prescribed where a patient needs breathing support rather than just an open airway. The treating doctor decides which.
Can I rent a BiPAP or CPAP machine in Bangalore?
Yes. We deliver the machine, set it to the pressures your doctor has prescribed, fit the mask with the machine running, and demonstrate its use and cleaning. It can be delivered alongside any other medical equipment on rent the home needs. Where a nurse is attending the patient at home as well, we set out what home nursing costs separately.
Do I need a prescription?
Yes. Machine type and pressure settings must be prescribed by the treating doctor, usually after a sleep study or during treatment of a respiratory condition. We supply and configure — we do not decide settings. The same is true of an oxygen concentrator on rent.
Why is my CPAP mask uncomfortable?
Almost always fit rather than the machine. An ill-fitting mask leaks, dries the eyes and wakes the patient. A different size or style — nasal, nasal pillows or full face — usually solves it. Tell us and we will refit it.
How do I clean a CPAP machine?
Clean the mask and cushion daily, and tubing and humidifier chamber weekly. Use distilled water in the humidifier and empty it daily. Check filters regularly — Bangalore dust clogs them faster than manuals assume.
Need a BiPAP or CPAP at home?
Share the prescription with the machine type and pressures, and we will deliver it set up correctly.