Please explain AHIh

dderrick · Post by **dderrick** » Thu Jun 12, 2008 6:26 am

My CPAP display provicded the following information:

APN-Hyp Index: 7 Day Avg: AHI=3.1, 10 Day Avg: AHI:=3.4

Please explain what this means and how I should interpret the figures

Thanks

DreamStalker · Post by **DreamStalker** » Thu Jun 12, 2008 6:55 am

AHI (apnea-hyponea index) is defined as the rate of apneas and hyponeas per hour.

7-day average is the sum of 7 nightly AHI values divided by 7.

10-day average is the sum of 10 nightly AHI values divided by 10.

Insurance will generally pay for equipment to treat OSA for people with an AHI of more than 5 ... hence some interpret that to mean that an AHI of 5 or less as being normal or adequately treated.

However, some feel better with lower AHI values and some just prefer to try and have the lowest possible for peace of mind.

Slinky · Post by **Slinky** » Thu Jun 12, 2008 6:57 am

Hey, doing good!

AHI = apnea/hypopnea index = number of apneas AND hypopneas experienced per hour.

An AHI of less than 5.0 (w/o xPAP) is considered "normal", many individuals will experience an apnea or hypopnea or so during the night. As long as they have less than 5 total thru the night they are not considered to have OSA (obstructive sleep apnea).

An AHI of 5 to 15 is considered mild, 15 to 30 is considered moderate and 30 and over is considered severe.

So if your AHI with xPAP is lower than 5.0 your OSA therapy is considered to be successful - as long as you continue to use your xPAP. Quit using your xPAP and you will be back to square one.

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