From the Guidelines
To use a BiPAP, you need to put the mask over your nose or nose and mouth, and the machine will help you breathe in and out by blowing air into your lungs and then lowering the pressure when you breathe out. When you wear it, the machine gently blows air into your lungs when you breathe in, which makes it easier to get air. Then when you breathe out, the machine lowers the pressure so it's easier to blow out. It feels a bit like having a fan blowing air at you, but just for your breathing. You might hear some whooshing sounds from the machine - that's normal, as noted in various studies on the use of BiPAP for sleep disorders 1, 2, 3.
The mask should feel snug but not too tight. If it feels uncomfortable or air is leaking out, tell a grown-up so they can adjust it. You'll need to keep the mask on the whole time you're supposed to use it, which might be when you sleep at night or when the doctor says. Some important settings to consider for your comfort include the rise time, which is the time it takes for the pressure to change from the lower pressure when you breathe out (EPAP) to the higher pressure when you breathe in (IPAP), with some patients preferring shorter rise times and others longer rise times 2. Additionally, some machines have a feature called pressure relief during EPAP, which can make it easier to breathe out if you're having trouble 3.
The key is to work with a grown-up to find the settings that make you feel most comfortable and help you breathe the best, and to follow the guidelines for using a BiPAP as outlined in clinical practices for sleep centers 1.
From the Research
Using a BiPAP Machine
To use a BiPAP machine, you will need to follow a set of steps to ensure that you are using it correctly and safely.
- A BiPAP machine is used to help you breathe by delivering two different levels of air pressure, one for inhalation and one for exhalation 4, 5.
- The machine is typically connected to a face mask or nasal mask, which you wear over your nose and/or mouth.
- The settings on the machine, such as the level of air pressure and the rate of breathing, can be adjusted by a healthcare professional to meet your specific needs 4.
- It is essential to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional and to practice using the machine to ensure that you are comfortable and familiar with its use.
Benefits of Using a BiPAP Machine
Using a BiPAP machine can have several benefits, including:
- Improving breathing and reducing symptoms of respiratory distress 5, 6
- Reducing the need for intubation and mechanical ventilation 5
- Increasing oxygen delivery to the lungs and reducing hypoxia 7
- Improving muscle oxygenation and reducing fatigue during exercise 8
Important Considerations
- It is crucial to use the BiPAP machine as directed by your healthcare professional and to follow all safety precautions to avoid any complications.
- Regular maintenance and cleaning of the machine and its accessories are necessary to ensure proper function and prevent infection.
- If you experience any discomfort, pain, or difficulty breathing while using the BiPAP machine, you should notify your healthcare professional immediately.