Can You Use Oxygen Through a Bipap Machine?

Patients with sleep apnea may require additional oxygen supplementation. If the patient is already using a Bipap machine, the patient can use an "oxygen bleed in" through the Bipap.

Significance

Patients who require oxygen supplementation and a Bipap machine can use the oxygen through the Bipap. The oxygen tubing is connected to an adaptor that fits into the Bipap circuit. This is called "oxygen bleed in."

Identification

Bipap machines treat sleep apnea, a sleep disorder in which patients quit breathing. These patients may suffer complications such as daytime sleepiness and fatigue due to interrupted sleep caused by the condition.

Function

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when a patient's airway becomes blocked during sleep. A Bipap machine blows air pressure through tubing and a mask into the patients airway, keeping the airway open for proper breathing throughout sleep.

Benefits

Sleep apnea can cause a patient to have low oxygen levels. Generally, a Bipap or CPAP machine restores the patient's oxygen levels. However, in some cases, the patient will require additional oxygen supplementation and will need an "oxygen bleed in" through the Bipap or CPAP machine.

Types

Oxygen systems that are appropriate for home use with a Bipap machine include compressed gas tanks, liquid oxygen and concentrators. Patients can purchase or rent these systems through a Home Medical Equipment Company.

References

• Apria Healthcare

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