What is non-invasive ventilation?
Non-invasive ventilation (NIV) is a treatment that can help you breathe more easily if your
breathing problem is getting worse. NIV supports your breathing but does not take over it. It
involves you using a cushioned mask that fits over your mouth and nose (Fig 1), or just your
nose (Fig 2).
Fig 1. Full face mask Fig 2. Nasal (nose) mask
Why do I need NIV?
When you breathe normally you take in oxygen for your body to use and breathe out the waste
gas carbon dioxide. Breathing in enough oxygen and blowing out enough carbon dioxide might
have become more difficult for you. NIV helps your breathing by blowing in extra air as you
breathe. This helps correct your oxygen and carbon dioxide levels.
What are the benefits of NIV?
NIV improves the effectiveness of your breathing and can reduce the work of breathing for your
muscles, which can make breathing easier for you. Other benefits may include improved sleep
quality, reduced sleepiness in the day and less frequent morning headaches.
While wearing the mask, you can sleep or be awake to co-operate with chest physiotherapy.
You are also able to talk, and the mask can be removed easily for eating and drinking.
What are the side effects of NIV?
• The face mask may make you feel claustrophobic.
• Air may leak from around the mask and cause eye discomfort.
• If you swallow some of the air it can lead to trapped wind or bloating. If this happens, the
settings on your machine may need to be changed.
• Nose, mouth or throat dryness. If this happens, we can give you a humidifier to help.
• The mask may cause sore skin on your face or make your skin break down over the
bridge of your nose. If you find this is a problem, you may need to try different masks or
use extra liners to create a comfortable fit.
• You may find it harder to clear spit and phlegm from your throat and nose when you wear
the mask. You may need to remove the mask for a few minutes to spit it out.
What are the risks of NIV?
Pneumothorax (lung collapse). This is very rare and only if the machine is set at high pressures.
It is caused by an air leak from the lung which becomes trapped between your lung and chest
wall. It may cause sudden sharp chest pain, which is worse when you breathe in, and
breathlessness. You will need to attend your local A&E urgently if this happens.
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