Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition that can have long-term health impacts if not treated. If you’re looking for sleep apnea solutions in Brentwood and Murfreesboro TN, it is important to understand the difference between hypopneas and apneas, as well as what AHI means. Let’s take a look at some of the key aspects of understanding and managing sleep apnea.
What Is a Hypopnea?
A hypopnea is an episode of breathing during sleep when airflow is reduced by 50% or more for at least 10 seconds. It can be due to multiple causes, including airway obstruction, respiratory muscle weakness, or poor airway control. Generally speaking, hypopneas are less severe than apneas but can still cause significant disruption to sleep quality.
Are Hypopneas as Bad as Apneas?
The short answer is yes — hypopneas may not be as severe as apneas (which involve complete cessation of airflow), but they can still lead to fragmented sleep, daytime fatigue, and other symptoms associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Furthermore, recurrent hypopneas have been linked to higher blood pressure levels and increased risk for stroke or heart attack.
What Does AHI Mean?
AHI stands for “apnea-hypopnea index” — it is an overall measure of your OSA severity that takes into account the number of both types of events per hour during your study period (typically from one night). An AHI score of 5-15 indicates mild OSA; 16-30 indicates moderate OSA; 30+ indicates severe OSA.
What if I Feel Fine?
It’s important to note that many people with mild OSA may feel fine even though their AHI score indicates they have the condition — this is why it’s important to get evaluated by a healthcare professional who specializes in sleep medicine if you suspect you may have OSA. Mild cases can sometimes be managed without requiring a CPAP machine or other treatments; however, more severe cases will require further intervention in order to avoid further complications down the line.
If you’re looking for solutions for managing your sleep apnea in Brentwood or Murfreesboro TN, it helps to understand what an AHI score means as well as what distinguishes a hypopnea from an apnea episode. Remember that even mild cases should be taken seriously — if you think you may have OSA, consult with an experienced healthcare provider who can advise you on how best to treat your condition. With the right help and care, managing your sleep apnea doesn’t need to be difficult!
Contact Sleep Apnea & TMJ Solutions:
615-850-8445
Location (Tap To Open In Google Maps):
1177 Old Hickory Blvd, Suite 203
Brentwood, TN 370271605 Medical Center Pkwy, Suite 215
Murfreesboro, TN 37129
