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Using a BiPAP

A BiPAP is a type of ventilator, a device that helps with breathing. BiPAP delivers an inhale pressure and an exhale pressure. So it’s also called a bilevel or 2-level positive airway pressure device. It may be used when a health problem is making it hard for you to breathe.

The BiPAP machine

You should be familiar with the parts of your BiPAP machine. They include:

  • A face mask, nasal mask, or nasal plugs

  • The machine’s motor, which blows air into a tube


Your BiPAP machine might also have other features, such as a heated humidifier.

Before you start BiPAP therapy, your machine may need to be calibrated. Someone from your healthcare team will adjust the settings. That person is often a respiratory therapist. The settings need to be correct so that you receive the right therapy. You may also get other instructions on how to get ready for your BiPAP therapy.

When to use your BiPAP

You might get BiPAP therapy while at the hospital for a breathing emergency. You also might use it at home for an ongoing (chronic) condition. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions about when to use your BiPAP. You might need to use it only while you sleep. Or you might need to use it all the time. Use it exactly as instructed. Otherwise you will not get the full benefits from your BiPAP therapy.

Getting used to your BiPAP

When you first start using BiPAP, you may feel uncomfortable. It may feel odd wearing a mask and feeling the flow of air. Over time, you should get used to it. If you feel like you really can’t breathe while using BiPAP, talk with your healthcare provider. He or she may need to adjust the pressure settings on your machine.

It’s important not to eat or drink anything while using BiPAP. You might inhale food or liquid into your lungs if you do so. Your healthcare provider may give you other instructions about the best way to use your machine.

If your health problem gets better, you may be able to start using less pressure on your BiPAP machine. Or you might be able to use the machine less often. Work with your healthcare team to help get the best treatment.

The BiPAP device settings are given as centimeters of water, or cm/H2O. Each person’s pressure settings are different. Your healthcare provider will tell you what settings to use. Never change your BiPAP pressure setting unless your provider tells you to.

BiPAP ____________cm/H20 pressure when you breathe in

BiPAP ____________cm/H20 pressure when you breathe out

Fixing problems with your BiPAP

  • Nasal dryness. A humidifier may help reduce nasal dryness.

  • Eye or sinus symptoms. Using a facial mask instead of a nasal mask may also help reduce any eye or sinus symptoms.

  • Headaches. If you get headaches, they could be because of sinus congestion. In some cases, your healthcare provider might prescribe nasal saline or an antihistamine for these symptoms.


  • Stomach bloating. Your healthcare provider may be able to reduce the pressure setting on your machine to stop stomach bloating.

  • Noise. If the noise from the BiPAP bothers you, try using earplugs. If the device is very loud, check with the medical supplier to make sure it is working correctly.

Call 911

Have someone call 911if you have the following symptoms:

  • Problems breathing or unable to breathe

  • Feeling faint or become unresponsive

  • Skin or lips look blue, purple, or gray

When to call your healthcare provider

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

  • You feel like you can’t breathe while using your BiPAP


  • Severe or ongoing skin irritation from your mask

  • Stomach bloating

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