BIPAP is a compact and small machine that helps with respiration. It is also easy to operate. This machine eases the way a person with COPD breathes. Its principle of operation is simple. The user takes in air with raised pressure (i.e., pressurized air) through a mask. This helps with regulation of their pattern of breathing when asleep. COPD is an acronym for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder. It is a condition that causes difficulty in inhaling healthy air into the lung. Breathing difficulty is as a result of a less elastic lung. As a result, they find it hard to breathe deeply because of mucus accumulation in the lungs.
COPD symptoms become worse at night. This increases sleep anxiety and daytime exhaustion. Good sleep is important for repair of cellular tissues. Therefore, the importance of a good sleep cannot be overemphasized.
In this text, we will x-ray the importance of BIPAP and probable side effects. We will also be looking at how it compares with CPAP therapy. We will also take a look at a few other therapies that can minimize the effect of COPD.
What is BiPAP?
The full meaning of BiPAP is bi-level positive airway pressure. It is basically a type of positive airway pressure machine. It is used primarily for improving and stabilizing breathing pattern during the night time or when there is symptom flare up.
This machine raises the air pressure above the pressure level of the air in the room. This makes it easier to inhale oxygen and breathe out carbon dioxide. As a result of this, they breathe easier and better.
Both CPAP and BiPAP are non-invasive ventilation (NIV) therapies. CPAP means Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. They both involve taking in pressurized air via a mask attached to a machine. People that make use of CPAP or BiPAP tend to sleep better.
A lot of people with COPD do not need a BiPAP machine and the device does not work as it should for all other person. It is the duty of the physician to determine whether it would be beneficial for such people or not.
Is BiPAP effective for COPD?
Prescription of CPAP or BiPAP machines can be done for use at home or hospital. Doctors have confirmed that daily use of BiPAP does not only improve quality of sleep for people with COPD, it can also help them live longer. Using BiPAP machines also reduce the rate of hospital visit among people with COPD. BiPAP machines are also useful in emergency situations. It helps to minimize the need for invasive treatment and improves outcomes.
BiPAP Side Effects
BiPAP is very safe. A lot of problems associated with BiPAP is caused by facemask fitting tightly causing damage to the skin. It may also fit too loosely leading to pressurized air leakage. There have been instances of the following:
- Dry mouth
- Sinus pain
- Eye irritation
- Bloating of the stomach
How is CPAP different from BiPAP?
CPAP machines are a form of compact, pressurized breathing devices. However, people with COPD usually prefer BiPAP. The main dichotomy between them is that to inhale with CPAP, certain pressure is needed while BiPAP makes it possible to inhale and exhale with two different pressures. Therefore, it is less difficult to exhale with BiPAP machines. The operating principle of CPAP is such that the airways is held open through persistent pressure whether the individual breathes in or out. The effect of this pressure is to prevent collapse of the upper airway. This eases respiration and ensures a constant supply of oxygen while the person falls asleep.
These machines are also useful for the treatment of heart failure, which is a complication that may arise from COPD. The quantity of blood that goes back to the heart is minimized due to this therapy. Therefore, the strain involved is relatively lower.
Other COPD therapies
We suggest discussing COPD management plan with a trained physician. There should also be checkups from time to time. The British Lung Foundation have suggested measures that can help with the symptoms of COPD. They include keeping active, regular exercises, and to quit smoking.
COPD Medications
Medication for COPD can be divided into two:
- Controller medication that guards against COPD symptoms.
- Rescue medication this lowers and minimizes symptoms when there is a flare-up.
Doctors may recommend any of the following controllers.
1. Corticosteroids
2. Phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor
3. Long-acting beta-agonist bronchodilators
4. Combination corticosteroids and long-acting beta-agonist
5. Combination long-acting anticholinergics and long-acting beta-agonist.
Common rescue relievers are:
1. Combination medications made up of short-acting anticholinergic as well as a short-acting beta-agonist.
2. Short (fast)-acting beta-agonist bronchodilators.
These medications may be taken through a handheld inhaler or nebulizer. It all depends on what the doctor recommends. Normally, people with COPD use nebulizers as the medication can be inhaled over time. Nebulizers however require more preparation time. The time required to prepare inhalers is shorter.
Surgery
Some COPD symptoms may be treated with surgery. It all depends on the root cause. For instance, lung volume reduction surgery may help with a person emphysema. The sections of the lung that are worse-hit are removed so that the healthier tissues can function properly.
In severe cases and circumstances, a lung transplant may be required. This is usually the case if other treatment methods have failed. However, it is important to state that this operation is risky.