BiPAP Machine - Uses, Parts, Side Effects, and Instructions to Follow

Introduction

BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) machine is a type of ventilator. This machine delivers air to the lungs to ease breathing. The air present inside the machine is in pressurized form. The BiPAP machines are used in hospitals. It has a compact size and can also be used at home. The BiPAP machine improves the oxygen level and reduces carbon dioxide.

What Are the Uses of BiPAP Machines?

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder(COPD): In COPD, there are breathing difficulties like shortness of breath and wheezing. BiPAP machines are used to treat such breathing problems. It is particularly useful during the night to open the airways. It helps in the exchange of oxygen with carbon dioxide during inhalation and exhalation.

• Pickwickian Syndrome: It is also known as obesity hypoventilation syndrome. The person affected by this syndrome has dysfunctional breathing with more carbon dioxide in the blood. The BiPAP machine distributes oxygen to the lungs during sleep. It maintains a balance between oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.

• Obstructive Sleep Apnea: It is the most common breathing disorder that occurs during sleep. The relaxation of the soft palate and tongue causes narrowing of the upper airway. It results in breathing difficulties. The BiPAP machine is used as a facemask to open the airway. It develops pressure during inhalation and exhalation and transmits oxygen to the lungs.

• Sclerosis: Sclerosis causes degeneration of neurons in the brain. It diminishes the work of respiratory muscles. The BiPAP machine is used to support breathing.

• Pneumonia: The inflammation of the airways influences the normal breathing process. The BiPAP machine flares up the airways and assists in breathing for patients affected by pneumonia.

• Asthma: BiPAP is considered the safest respiratory support for severe asthmatic conditions in children. It improves the respiratory rate and oxygenation in the lungs. It improves the recovery rate of asthma.

• Surgery: The breathing ability is altered after major surgery. Nasal intubation is difficult to use in such situations. The BiPAP machine is used as a ventilator. The facemask increases breathing efficiency.

• Pre-oxygenation Support: BiPAP can be used as pre-ventilatory support during intubation preparation. Bi-PAP causes less fatigue during intubation.

How Does the BiPAP Machine Work?

The BiPAP machine has a mask and a tube. The tube connects the mask and the ventilator. A patient who requires ventilation therapy should wear a mask covering the nose and mouth. The principle behind the BiPAP machine is that they work because of air pressure. The air pressure distributes oxygen to the airways. It facilitates the easier exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide between the lungs and blood. BiPAP machines are also called Bilevel. It has two pressure settings. They are as follows;

• Inspiratory Positive Airway Pressure:

During inhalation, the BiPAP machine produces more air pressure. It helps in opening the airways and delivering oxygen to the blood.

• Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure:

During exhalation, the pressure is reduced by the BiPAP machine. So the carbon dioxide is expelled from the lungs. The timer attached to the BiPAP can be adjusted depending on the breaths per minute.

What Are the Side Effects of Bipap Machine?

BiPAP machines are one of the safest ventilator devices. The side effects are very rare. They are as follows;

• During the night, some people have discomfort falling asleep while wearing the facemask.

• The prolonged opening of the mouth results in a dry mouth.

• The forced air is difficult to tolerate. Due to the air pressure created in the lungs, the stomach has a bloating feel.

• Lack of humidification can cause dryness in the skin around the nose and mouth.

• If there is excess air pressure, it creates a strain on the sinus and causes pain near the sinus areas.

• The overuse of BiPAP machines can irritate the nasal lining and cause infection. It results in a runny nose.

• The extended use of a tight nasal mask can create marks on the skin.

How to Overcome the Side Effects of Using a BiPAP Machine?

• Facemasks are better than nasal masks. It reduces the strain on the sinus and headache.

• A humidifier can be used along the mask to reduce the dryness in the nose and mouth. The level of humidification can be adjusted according to the requirement. Use a nasal spray to prevent a dry nose.

• Antihistamines are prescribed by the doctor to prevent allergies and runny noses.

• Adjust the straps around the mask if the mask is too tight or loose.

• The pressure in the BiPAP machine can be adjusted to prevent bloating.

• Do muscle relaxation exercises to reduce anxiety while using the BiPAP machine.

What Are the Instructions to Follow While Using a Bipap Machine?

• The full benefits of the BiPAP machine are obtained if it is used correctly. Try masks of different sizes and choose the best fit. The facemask should fit properly without any leakage during ventilation.

• BiPAP machines are uncomfortable to use during the initial days. It feels odd to breathe through the facemask.

• The pressure settings in the BiPAP machine must be altered on the advice of a medical professional because the pressure is set according to the breathing problem.

• Do not eat or drink while using the BiPAP machine because there is a chance of the food particles or liquid entering the airways during inhalation.

• BiPAP machines have a mild rhythmic sound. If the device makes a loud noise, then take necessary measures to repair the device.

• Stop using the BiPAP machine if you have any symptoms like fainting, headache, and irritation. Get help from the medical professional immediately.

• Clean the masks and tubes after every use. Cover the machine when not in use.

Conclusion

Use the BiPAP machine according to the instructions provided by the medical professional because some people require ventilator assistance only during the night while others require ventilation in the daytime also. If there is an improvement in the breathing ability, the pressure in the BiPAP machine can be lessened. Then the frequency of using the BiPAP machines can be reduced. Consult the healthcare provider if there are side effects like dryness and allergy. Clear the doubts with the medical provider before using the machine. Choose the BiPAP machine according to your medical needs.