CPAP vs BiPAP

[raneyday]

Hello all,
I've been having a hard time with my CPAP machine. As soon as it ramps up to full pressure (13), I start getting leaks all over the place. I saw my doctor today, and she suggested switching to BiPAP. I understand the difference between CPAP and BiPAP, but is BiPAP better at reducing leaks?

She also said I should switch from a full face mask to nasal pillows. I pointed out that there will be times when if I don't breathe through my mouth I don't breathe at all. (I really hate hay fever season!)

I'm scheduled for another sleep study soon.

Any thoughts, info would be greatly appreciated.

Currently I'm using REMstar Plus CPAP Machine with Mirage Quattro Full Face Mask.

[cflame1]

Bipap won't help your leaks.

[rested gal]

I agree with cflame that bipap is not the answer to leak problems.

But hey, if the doctor is willing to switch you from cpap to bipap, go for it!! And try to get the doctor to specify this "bipap" machine:
Respironics BiPAP Auto with Bi-flex.

If you don't have to turn in your full face mask as a swap for another mask, yeah, accept another mask too!

"Gather ye rosebuds while ye may!"

[Slinky]

RestedGal is RIGHT ON! Anything to get rid of that Plus. Its a bottom of the line-er. And bi-levels do make for some EASY breathing. Co-operate w/your sleep doctor. Go w/the bi-level! AND w/a nasal pillows mask too if you get to keep the full face. Most likely you will be able to since it is a script change. Unless she suggests a specific nasal pillows you might want to try the new Swift LT. It seems to be well-liked by many.

[dsm]

Raneyday

Just to add to the good advice already offered ...

Where Bilevels do help a bit is that when you breathe out, the machine detects this and drops the pressure - that drop tends to help reduce leaks. Some machines allow the pressure drop to be set to a specific value others will manage it all fo you based on what it is sensing of events.

The other good aspect of a Bilevel is that it helps many of us reduce the effects of wind - esp so for those of us (which seems to be a lot) who also have GERD or acid stomach.

Also, Bilevel compared to straight CPAP is a more natural feel because of the ability to set that inhale exhale gap plus adjust some aspects of how fast the machine goes between the in-hale & ex-hale cycle (called setting the risetime).

Good luck in what you settle on - as RestedGal said, if the doctor will prescribe one don't stop him

DSM