STOP-Bang Questionnaire
What Is the STOP-Bang Questionnaire?
The STOP-Bang Questionnaire is a simple screening tool used to identify people who may be at risk for obstructive sleep apnea.
It consists of eight questions related to common sleep apnea symptoms and risk factors, including snoring, daytime fatigue, and observed breathing pauses during sleep, blood pressure, age, body mass index (BMI), neck size, and gender.
The name STOP-Bang comes from the first letter of each screening question. While the STOP-Bang Questionnaire cannot diagnose sleep apnea, it helps healthcare providers determine whether additional testing, such as a sleep study, may be recommended.
What Does Your STOP-Bang Score Mean?
Each “yes” answer receives one point, creating a total score between 0 and 8.
0–2 Points: Low risk for obstructive sleep apnea
3-4 Points: Intermediate risk for obstructive sleep apnea
5-8 Points: High risk for obstructive sleep apnea
A higher score suggests a greater likelihood of sleep-disordered breathing and may indicate the need for further evaluation.
Common Signs of Sleep Apnea
If you have a higher STOP-Bang score, you may also experience symptoms such as:
Loud snoring
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Waking up gasping or choking
Difficulty concentrating
Poor sleep quality
Many people live with sleep apnea for years without realizing their symptoms may be connected to a sleep disorder.
Next Steps After a STOP-Bang Screening
A STOP-Bang Questionnaire is only the first step. If your results suggest an increased risk of sleep apnea, a sleep specialist can help determine whether additional testing is appropriate.
Sleep Wellness Center offers both home sleep studies and in-lab sleep studies to evaluate breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and sleep disruptions. These tests provide the information needed to accurately diagnose sleep apnea and develop an effective treatment plan.
If you're experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea or have concerns about your STOP-Bang score, contact Sleep Wellness Center today to learn more about your options.