CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) and BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) machines are used to treat sleep apnea, a condition characterized by interrupted breathing during sleep.
A CPAP machine delivers a constant flow of air pressure through a mask to keep the airway open. A BiPAP machine, on the other hand, delivers two different levels of air pressure: a higher pressure when the person inhales and a lower pressure when they exhale.
Both CPAP and BiPAP machines are effective treatments for sleep apnea, but a BiPAP machine may be more comfortable for some people as it mimics more closely the natural breathing pattern. A healthcare professional can help determine which machine is best for an individual patient.