A CPAP machine delivers a single continuous air pressure to keep your airway open during sleep, while a BiPAP machine delivers two pressure levels — higher on inhalation, lower on exhalation. For sleep apnea, most patients start with CPAP; BiPAP is prescribed when CPAP pressure causes discomfort or when breathing disorders like COPD are also present.
What is a CPAP Machine?
A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine delivers a single, steady air pressure throughout the night. It is the standard first-line treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The prescribed pressure keeps the upper airway open during sleep, eliminating snoring and apnea events that disrupt breathing.
What is a BiPAP Machine?
A BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure) machine delivers two pressure levels — a higher IPAP (inhalation pressure) and a lower EPAP (exhalation pressure). The lower exhale pressure makes breathing easier and more comfortable. BiPAP is prescribed for patients who struggle with CPAP exhalation pressure, or for complex respiratory conditions beyond simple sleep apnea.
BiPAP vs CPAP — Key Differences at a Glance
| Feature | CPAP | BiPAP |
|---|---|---|
| Pressure type | Single fixed pressure | Two pressures (inhale / exhale) |
| Best for | Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) | Complex sleep apnea, COPD, heart failure, neuromuscular disease |
| Comfort | Standard — some find exhale uncomfortable | More comfortable — easier to breathe out |
| Typical rental cost | Lower | Higher |
| Prescription required | Yes | Yes |
| Mask options | Nasal, full-face, nasal pillow | Same as CPAP |
When Does a Doctor Prescribe BiPAP Instead of CPAP?
- You have central sleep apnea rather than obstructive sleep apnea
- Your required CPAP pressure is above 15 cm H₂O and causes discomfort
- You have COPD, neuromuscular disease, or heart failure alongside sleep apnea
- You fail a CPAP trial — unable to tolerate the constant exhale pressure
- You experience frequent apneas despite correctly titrated CPAP
What to Check Before Renting a CPAP or BiPAP Machine
- Get a sleep study (polysomnography) done and receive a formal diagnosis.
- Get a prescription from your doctor specifying machine type and pressure settings.
- Decide on mask type — nasal mask, full-face mask, or nasal pillow.
- Choose a rental duration — weekly or monthly is standard for new users.
- Confirm the rental provider sanitises machines between users (Medrent does).
Can I Rent a CPAP or BiPAP Machine Without Buying?
Yes. Renting is the smart first step — especially if you are trialling therapy for the first time, travelling, or need the machine for post-surgery respiratory support. Medrent provides CPAP and BiPAP machines on rent with home delivery in Delhi NCR. A sleep study report and prescription specifying your pressure settings are required.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a prescription to rent a CPAP or BiPAP machine?
Yes. A doctor's prescription with the prescribed pressure settings is required to rent CPAP or BiPAP machines from Medrent, as these are medical devices with specific clinical settings.
Is a BiPAP the same as a ventilator?
No. A BiPAP provides positive pressure support and is used for sleep apnea and mild respiratory conditions. A ventilator fully controls or assists breathing and is used for severe respiratory failure. Both are available on rent from Medrent.
Can I rent a CPAP machine for just a few days?
Contact Medrent at 9818601212 for minimum rental periods. Short-term rentals for travel or trial purposes are available depending on stock.
What mask should I use with a rented CPAP?
Your doctor or sleep specialist recommends the mask type. Nasal masks suit most patients. Full-face masks are needed if you breathe through your mouth. Nasal pillow masks are the most compact and least intrusive. Masks are personal-use items and should not be shared.
Can BiPAP be used for COVID-19 recovery breathing support?
BiPAP has been used in some COVID-19 recovery protocols for patients with respiratory distress. This must only be done under active medical supervision with a doctor's prescription and monitored oxygen levels.
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