Data and follow-up

Understanding your CPAP report

Q: What is a good AHI on CPAP?

On CPAP, an AHI under 5 events an hour means treatment is working; ideally under 2. Between 5 and 10, adjusting the pressure or the mask may help. Above 10, talk to your provider or your sleep doctor.

Q: How do I get to the detailed data from my CPAP?

OSCAR (free, open source, PC, Mac and Linux) reads your SD card. SleepHQ (online) has a modern interface and can import automatically with the Magic Uploader. The myAir app, for ResMed machines, gives a simplified overview that is enough for many patients.

Q: What do the leaks on my CPAP report mean?

Leak (in L/min, at the 95th percentile) measures air escaping from the mask unintentionally. ResMed sets the alert threshold at 24 L/min. Large leaks come from a poorly fitted mask, a worn cushion or mouth breathing. Each cause has its fix.

Q: What is the difference between obstructive and central apnea?

Obstructive apnea comes from the throat closing: that is what CPAP treats. Central apnea comes from the brain not sending the signal to breathe. If central apneas dominate on CPAP, tell your sleep doctor.

Q: How many hours a night of CPAP does the NIHDI convention require?

The convention requires AVERAGE use of at least 4 hours a night over the period assessed, with nights without the device counting as zero. Below that, you only get a 3-month approval at renewal (the "joker"). For good treatment, aim for 6 to 8 hours.

Your CPAP records hundreds of data points every night. Knowing how to read them lets you spot a problem before your next appointment, and sometimes saves you months of poorly adjusted treatment.

AHI, leaks, pressure explained Interactive decoder included OSCAR and SleepHQ NIHDI rules in Belgium

Getting to your data

Three tools, three levels of detail. myAir only works with ResMed machines; SleepHQ and OSCAR also read other brands.

myAir

ResMed

Free

A daily score, events per hour, leaks, automatic sync. Ideal for getting started.

For: beginners, easy daily tracking

Open myAir →

Recommended

SleepHQ

Free or paid

A web platform. SD card or Magic Uploader. Free forever (last 30 days) or Pro at US$14.90 a month (US$149 a year).

For: self-reliant patients who want something modern

See the SleepHQ guide →

OSCAR

Open source

Completely free

PC, Mac and Linux software that reads the SD card. Night-by-night graphs, breathing second by second, expert level.

For: advanced users, full control

See the OSCAR guide →

Anatomy of a CPAP report

The 5 key indicators in a monthly report, and what each one tells you about your treatment.

Swipe to see the whole diagram on mobile · Entirely fictional data, for illustration only

Interactive report decoder

Click a metric to see it explained in detail.

AirSense AutoSet · S/N xxxxxxx ● Excellent

Report: last 30 days

Illustrative data only

Select a metric

Click AHI, Leak, Pressure, Usage or Nights ≥ 4h to see it explained in detail.

The data in this decoder is entirely fictional, for illustration only.

Key metrics: a reference guide

The AHI and its parts

The total AHI adds up apneas and hypopneas. On CPAP, it breaks down into:

OAIObstructive apneas: the throat closes. CPAP treats them directly.
CAICentral apneas: for a moment, the brain stops sending the signal to breathe. If they dominate on CPAP, talk to your doctor.
HIHypopneas: breathing drops sharply without stopping, for at least 10 seconds.
RERABrief arousals caused by breathing effort, without a clear apnea or hypopnea.

Automatic mode (AutoSet)

In automatic mode, the machine adjusts the pressure continuously to what you need. Your report shows:

MedianYour "cruising" pressure: half the time, the pressure is below it.
95th pct.The pressure exceeded only 5% of the time. If it reaches the maximum set, the range may be too low.
EPRExpiratory pressure relief: the pressure drops as you breathe out. Useful if breathing out is hard.

Leaks: causes and solutions

●

Poorly fitted mask : readjust the headgear. Too tight means marks on your skin, and leaks anyway.

●

Worn cushion : replace the cushion (silicone or foam) every 3 to 6 months.

●

Mouth breathing : try a full face mask, or a chin strap with a nasal mask.

●

Beard : some masks seal better with a beard (nasal masks, gel cushions).

The NIHDI convention: the numbers that count

Minimum use ≥ 4 hours a night on average

Assessment period 2 months at the first renewal, then at least 9 months

Index required at diagnosis OAHI ≥ 15/h (age 16 and over)

Followed up by The accredited sleep center

Full guide to the CPAP convention →

Communities and resources

Thousands of patients share their reports and help each other improve their treatment.

ApneaBoard.com

Expert forum

The reference forum. Experienced volunteers analyze your OSCAR reports for free.

Reddit r/CPAP

Community

A very active community. Daily questions about reading data, masks and side effects.

SleepHQ Community

Online

Built into the platform (Pro plan). Report sharing and peer support.

Facebook groups

Social network

French-speaking sleep apnea patient groups: day-to-day support, tips, shared experience.

Frequently asked questions

What is a good AHI on CPAP?

How do I get to the detailed data from my CPAP?

What do the leaks on my CPAP report mean?

What is the difference between obstructive and central apnea?

How many hours a night of CPAP does the NIHDI convention require?

Was this page useful?