[Diagnosis] Understanding SpO2

[marks1]

Hi,

I've been using the Emay finger O2 Saturation meter and capturing data.

Attached is an image with info from two sample days.


I have three questions:


1. Thinking about those two days... One has more time in 95-100 but more ODI 4% drops. The other has less time in 95-100 but fewer ODI 4% drops.

How should I think about these two days? Which is preferrable and why?

Day 1: SpO2 95-100 90% and ODI 4% 5.4/hr
Day 2: SpO2 95-100 80% and ODI 4% 3.3/hr


2. How serious is my apnea based on the two sample days?

3. I'm trying to improve my values with non-CPAP interventions for now -- eating dinner earlier, nasal expander, mouth taping. I suspect my apneas are central. How much improvement would I see with CPAP? i.e. how would those numbers change?

Thanks!

Mark

[Crimson Nape]

Based on the very limited data, I would not draw any conclusions.  First, the drops could have been caused by sensor movement.  Without additional information, flipping a coin will have the same results.  Have you had a complete cardio workup?  You need to take a sleep study for any further considerations.  A lab study provides the most detailed information, but an at home study can be affective at diagnosing sleep apnea.  If you're on your own dime for this, a home study is the most economical.

Here is a link to some of the Home Sleep Study providers.  
https://www.apneaboard.com/forums/Thread...#pid404296
The providers listed are not in any particular order or recommendation.  They are provided for ease of finding one.
- Red