Body Positions Effect on Number of Apneas

Obstructive sleep apnea is defined by an apnea‐hypopnea index of five or higher in association with excessive daytime drowsiness. When someone is having an apnea their oxygen saturation decreases. This makes it harder for the heart to transport oxygen to all parts of the body. Patients who suffer from sleep apnea often have heart issues as they age, because their heart has to work harder to pump oxygen when they are sleeping. Some individuals who experience apneas throughout the night do not meet the required index to be diagnosed with sleep apnea. These people are impacted by the apneas, but insurance will not pay for treatment. In our study, we will determine the best sleeping position for these individuals. Conducting this study will help patients who suffer from daytime drowsiness, and it will decrease the strain that is put on the patient\u27s heart throughout the night. We have gathered data from sleep studies conducted over several patients who suffer from various severities of sleep apnea. Using the data gathered, we will determine which position contributes to the least amount of apneas. This will allow patients who suffer from apneas but do not reach the required index to sleep throughout the night without experiencing numerous apneas