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Does the amplitude of flow rate have significance? - Printable Version

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Does the amplitude of flow rate have significance? - Clementine39 - 08-28-2018

Hi everyone,

My data on sleepyhead shows an amplitude for the flow rate of +/-11, as in my peaks tend to be around 11 and my troughs around -11.  When I look at other people's charts, their amplitudes seem much larger.  What is the significance of this, if any?

Thank you!


RE: Does the amplitude of flow rate have significance? - Walla Walla - 08-28-2018

It means you breath less air in and out. It varies based on the size of the person. It's also connected to Tidal Volume. You can google tidal volume charts and check on them to see whats normal for your ideal weight.


RE: Does the amplitude of flow rate have significance? - Clementine39 - 08-28-2018

The tidal chart says my tidal volume should be 360-470. Sleepyhead says mine was 414. I am a medium size female, fairly thin with a delicate build. Is there any problem with breathing less air in and out?


RE: Does the amplitude of flow rate have significance? - Walla Walla - 08-28-2018

Nope no problem. It sounds like your numbers are right where they should be.


RE: Does the amplitude of flow rate have significance? - Clementine39 - 08-28-2018

Thank you! You don't think shallow breathing like that is a kind of central sleep apnea? Or would it need to be shallower than that to pose a problem?


RE: Does the amplitude of flow rate have significance? - Walla Walla - 08-28-2018

I don't think your tidal volume indicates shallow breathing. Your breathing normally as far as volume goes. In the case of central apnea there wouldn't be any air flow during an event. it would be flat. Obstructive events could cause a reduction in flow without stop it though. If you think you have a problem with that go ahead and post a chart of using sleepyhead and someone can help you with that. There's links below for downloading sleepyhead and posting if you need them.