Nasal Pressure Recording. One promising technique uses a very simple prong device that attaches to the nostrils. A monitor records the airflow through the mouth and nose.
Peripheral Arterial Tonometry. An investigative technique called peripheral arterial tonometry measures changes in blood flow in the arteries of the finger tips during sleep. Such measurements are proving to be accurate in detecting sleep apnea in 80% of cases.
Measuring Sleepiness
The Epworth sleepiness scale uses a simple questionnaire to measure excessive sleepiness during eight situations.
THE EPWORTH SLEEPINESS SCALE |
|
|
SITUATION |
CHANCE OF DOZING 0 = no chance of dozing 1 = slight chance of dozing 2 = moderate chance of dozing 3 = high chance of dozing |
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Sitting and reading. |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
Watching TV. |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
Sitting inactive in a public place (a theater or a meeting). |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
As a passenger in a car for an hour without a break. |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
Lying down to rest in the afternoon when circumstances permit. |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
Sitting and talking to someone. |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
Sitting quietly after a lunch without alcohol. |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
In a car, while stopped for a few minutes in traffic. |
(Indicate a score of 0 to 3) |
|
SCORE RESULTS |
1-6: Getting enough sleep 4-8: Tends to be sleepy but is average. 9-15: Very sleepy and should seek medical advice. Over 16: Dangerously sleepy |
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