Pressure Support
The difference between inspiratory pressure (IPAP) and expiratory pressure (EPAP) on a bilevel device. Higher pressure support provides more breathing assistance.
What Is Pressure Support?
Pressure support is the difference between the inspiratory pressure (IPAP) and expiratory pressure (EPAP) on a bilevel (BiPAP) device. For example, if IPAP is 14 cmH2O and EPAP is 10 cmH2O, pressure support is 4 cmH2O. This pressure boost during inspiration helps push air through a narrowed upper airway.
Higher pressure support provides more assistance during inhalation, which can help overcome upper airway resistance and reduce flow limitation. Typical ranges are 2 to 6 cmH2O. The appropriate level depends on the degree of flow limitation, patient comfort, and underlying condition.
AirwayLab validates delivered pressure support by computing actual IPAP and EPAP from the BRP.edf pressure channel (using P10 and P90 percentiles of the bimodal pressure distribution) and comparing with prescribed settings. This helps verify that the machine is delivering the intended therapy and can reveal issues like insufficient pressure support relative to the prescribed settings.
How AirwayLab Measures This
AirwayLab computes delivered pressure support by measuring the difference between P90 (IPAP estimate) and P10 (EPAP estimate) of the pressure signal from BRP.edf. This is compared with the prescribed IPAP and EPAP from STR.edf to validate actual therapy delivery.
Try it with your dataFrequently Asked Questions
What is a normal pressure support setting?
Typical pressure support ranges from 2 to 6 cmH2O. The appropriate level depends on your degree of flow limitation and comfort. Higher pressure support provides more breathing assistance but may feel unnatural if set too high. Your clinician determines the appropriate setting.
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Medical Disclaimer
AirwayLab is not a medical device and is not FDA-cleared or CE-marked. It is provided for educational and informational purposes only. The analysis results should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult qualified healthcare providers regarding your sleep therapy and any changes to PAP settings.