Sleep Apnea Risk Score Calculator
Assess your risk of sleep apnea using the validated STOP-Bang questionnaire. Get personalized testing recommendations.
Weight(kg) ÷ Height(m)². Or use online BMI calculator.
Men >17", Women >16" = higher risk
Risk doubles after age 50
What is sleep apnea and why is it dangerous?
Sleep apnea is repeated breathing interruptions during sleep (5-30+ times/hour). Risks: High blood pressure (50% of patients), heart disease, stroke (4x higher risk), type 2 diabetes, weight gain, morning headaches, daytime fatigue. Untreated severe apnea reduces life expectancy by 10-15 years. Warning sign: Loud snoring + gasping/choking sounds during sleep.
When should I get a sleep study?
Get tested if you have 3+ of these: Loud/snoring/gasping, excessive daytime sleepiness (falling asleep watching TV, reading), high blood pressure, BMI >30, neck size >17" (men) or >16" (women), morning headaches, observed breathing stops, non-refreshing sleep despite 7+ hours. Home sleep tests cost $150-300. In-lab polysomnography ($1,000-3,000) is gold standard.
Can weight loss cure sleep apnea?
Yes! Losing 10-15% of body weight improves/cures apnea in 60-70% of overweight patients. Each 10 lbs lost reduces apnea events by 2-3/hour. Bariatric surgery cures 80-90% of severe cases. However, thin people can also have apnea (especially UARS - upper airway resistance syndrome). Weight loss + CPAP is most effective combo.
What are treatment options beyond CPAP?
1) Oral appliances (mandibular advancement devices) - 50-70% effective for mild-moderate apnea, 2) Weight loss (cures 60-70% of overweight patients), 3) Positional therapy (avoid back sleeping) - helps 50% with position-dependent apnea, 4) Surgery (UPP, MMA) - 40-60% success, 5) Hypoglossal nerve stimulation - 70% response rate. CPAP remains gold standard (100% effective when used).