CPAP and BiPAP are devices which are designed for the treatment of adult Obstructive Sleep Apnea. Normally a sleep study has to be performed at a certified sleep lab in order to determine the correct amount of pressure required for you and to get these machines reimbursed by your insurance carrier.

CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It is to be used only under the instruction of a physician and your home care provider will make the correct pressure settings according to the ordering physician's prescription. It differs from BiPAP because it delivers one set continuous pressure flow while you sleep.

BiPAP stands for Bi Level (or Dual) Positive Airway Pressure and is also only provided under the order of your physician. BiPAP offers two levels of pressure settings while you sleep -- one when you inhale and another while you exhale.

HUMIDIFIERS are available for both CPAP and BiPAP units. They are used if you experience dryness during hours of sleep and are provided in two types for your comfort. One type is a passover humidifier in which the air supply is passed over water to capture some additional humidity. The other is a heated humidifier which warms the water to add heat to the humidity. In either case a prescription is required to obtain a humidifier. Refer to the owners manual for operating and cleaning instructions.