What is a BiLevel or BiPAP machine?
A BiPAP, or BiLevel has two different pressure settings; one for inhalation (IPAP) and one for exhalation (EPAP). The machine provides the inhalation pressure, and then switches to a lower pressure during exhalation. This differs from CFlex because the exhale pressure is an exact setting, not just a drop in pressure. BiLevel machines are sometimes required by patients who have relatively high pressure settings and find it uncomfortable to exhale against the pressure. Also, some patients have underlying conditions like weak chest wall muscles or COPD that make it difficult or impossible to exhale against higher pressures.
