Acoustic analysis of overnight consecutive snoring sounds by sound pressure levels

Conclusion: The sound pressure level (SPL) parameters, especially the A-weighted equivalent sound level (LAeq) and accumulative percentile sound level 10 (L10), were significantly different between simple snoring (SS) and obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was the most significant factor to affect the SPLs of snoring sounds. LAeq and L10 were valuable acoustic characters of snoring which could reflect the severity of sleep disordered breathing in clinic. Objectives: Due to the limitation of acoustic analysis of single snoring sound for snorers, this study analyzed characteristics of consecutive snoring sounds overnight by the SPLs in patients of SS and OSAHS. Method: Ninety-four patients who underwent simultaneous SPL recording and polysomnography (PSG) were included in this study. Parameters of SPL such as LAeq, peak sound level (Lpeak), L10, L50, and L90 were analyzed. The correlation between these parameters and PSG results was also analyzed. Results: The LAeq and L10 in OSAHS patients were significantly different from patients with SS. The body mass index (BMI) was positively correlated to LAeq and L10. Among various factors of PSG data and demographic factors, the SPLs were mostly affected by the AHI and the lowest oxygen saturation (LSaO₂).