Central Apneas - Question

In my first sleep study, before titration I had an AHI of over 50. They reduced me to 14, "most of which were brief central apneas."

More recently, I have increased my pressure (from my titration of 7) up to 11 and my AHI is now consistently between 3 and 4. That's a big improvement.

Since home equipment can't identify which episodes are central versus obstructive, is there any reason that I should be concerned about increasing my pressure given that my AHI has improved? Logically, it seems as if I am better off with these readings, but I want to ensure that I'm not missing anything.

Thanks.

If your machine records events, central events will most like be recorded as obstructive. Very few machines are able to accurately detect central apnea and distinguish the difference between it and obstructive. Most use erratic breathing patterns after the fact to determine if one occurred.

I agree that an AHI of 3 to 4 is better than a significantly higher AHI of around 14. Be sure to get that information back to your doctor(s). They may even learn something from your somewhat unique treatment patterns. If your AHI ends up fluctuating quite a bit, on a somewhat episodic basis, then consider that episodic acid reflux flareups may be aggravating your sleep disordered breathing condition from time to time.

Congratulations on what is very likely a significant therapy improvement!

Thanks. I feel much more confident with my treatment now that my AHI is finally down into the "normal" range.

Actually, it took more than just increasing my pressure. I added a chin strap and then I added a second chin strap. It's not a pretty picture, but it seems to be very effective. My leakage is down and so is my AHI.

Thanks.