Mild/Moderate/Severe Classification of Sleep Apnea

Whether someone has sleep apnea is generally measured using a scale called the Apnea-hypopnea Index (AHI). An AHI is defined as more than five shallow breaths or pauses per hour, each lasting longer than ten seconds. The sum of shallow breaths and pauses per hour is also considered significant.

To obtain more accurate AHI data, patients need to spend an overnight stay at a sleep center equipped with the relevant equipment. A professional sleep technician will attach physiological signal leads to your body and head. After a night's sleep, the collected signals will be analyzed to create a comprehensive sleep report. Based on the AHI index, sleep apnea can be classified into the following levels.

• Mild sleep apnea: AHI between 5 (inclusive) and 15.
• Moderate sleep apnea: AHI between 15 (inclusive) and 30.
• Severe sleep apnea: AHI greater than or equal to 30.

References: National Sleep Foundation (USA), Taiwan Sleep Medicine Society, Sleep Center, National Taiwan University Hospital [Health Education Section]