What does RDI stand for?
The term RDI stands for Respiratory Disturbance Index and is a very important measure of the severity of the sleep disorder. The RDI is a number that represents how many times per hour breathing stops or becomes very shallow. This index is significant as it is often associated with disruption of sleep and dangerous drops in blood oxygen levels. Most physicians agree that an RDI below 5 is normal while an RDI over 30 may indicate severe disease. Many times RDI is used interchangeably with AHI (Apnea Hypopnea Index).
