AHI Spikes during the night.

I've been on CPAP since my AFIB Ablation in 2013. Cardiologist had me test for OSA, results was AHI of 8) Always have run below 2 AHI with CPAP. Lately I've been have about a 30 min. episode with one OSA after the other for about 30 events in that period of time. (Recorded 11 O2 desats during this period with low of 89) . AHI goes up to 25 during that time even with CPAP. Pressure set at 6. There is some snoring going on according to sleepy head. See the attachment below. Any ideas appreciated.

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0BxWjRGtBAZ68ZFBQckR1elJaYjA/view?usp=sharing

Hi @TooTall. It is possible that your OSA has changed or that you might be having increased events due to a specific sleep stage (such as REM) or due to changes in body position. As CPAP settings go, 6 cm is a low pressure. If you are having events related to REM sleep or related to body position, it is possible that you might now require a bit more pressure. OSA can worsen as we get older, and it tends to worse in REM sleep and in the supine position. I would encourage you to speak to your physician and show him the Sleepyhead printout.

Thanks, I'm making an appointment today and hope to get another sleep test One thing I didn't mention was that I tape my mouth completely shut due to mouth breathing. I'm wondering if that could be an issue.

Hi @TooTall. I'm not sure if that could be contributing to your AHI, but I do wonder if you have tried other mask options that might better accommodate your mouth-breathing? This might be something to discuss with your doctor or your home care provider. There are full face options that allow you to open your mouth, and chin straps can sometimes help support the chin and keep your mouth closed if you prefer a nasal mask. Best of luck!