Dr. John Krehlik, the first board-certified sleep doctor in southeast Alaska, helps patients combat illnesses which arise while asleep. One assessment often used by sleep professionals like Dr. John Krehlik is the STOP-BANG test, which screens for likelihood of sleep apnea.
STOP-BANG assesses eight key points, with more positive assessments presenting a higher risk for sleep apnea. Those who snore, feel tired during the day frequently, or are observed ceasing breathing during sleep are at a heightened risk of this condition. High blood pressure can also increase the risk.
The second half of STOP-BANG deals with physical attributes. Obesity can significantly increase someone's risk of sleep apnea, as can advanced age. Neck circumference also plays a role, with a circumference over 17 inches in men or 16 inches in women encouraging the development of sleep apnea. Men tend to be more likely to develop the condition than women, overall.
Those who score highly on this list of criteria should contact a doctor specializing in sleep apnea. Many other conditions can arise due to sleep apnea, including stroke and heart attack.
STOP-BANG assesses eight key points, with more positive assessments presenting a higher risk for sleep apnea. Those who snore, feel tired during the day frequently, or are observed ceasing breathing during sleep are at a heightened risk of this condition. High blood pressure can also increase the risk.
The second half of STOP-BANG deals with physical attributes. Obesity can significantly increase someone's risk of sleep apnea, as can advanced age. Neck circumference also plays a role, with a circumference over 17 inches in men or 16 inches in women encouraging the development of sleep apnea. Men tend to be more likely to develop the condition than women, overall.
Those who score highly on this list of criteria should contact a doctor specializing in sleep apnea. Many other conditions can arise due to sleep apnea, including stroke and heart attack.