Prevalence of Orthopnea in Older Individuals

Abstract

Introduction: Orthopnea is a type of dyspnea which occurs when an individual experiences breathlessness after lying down flat on ones back. This study focused on seeing its occurrence in older individuals categorically from 65 years and onwards. It focused on studying the impact of age related changes and its association with Orthopnea. It also focuses on studying, does lifestyle factors have any impact on the occurrence of Orthopnea, does change in sleeping position have any effect on perceiving Orthopnea, are nocturnal awakenings frequent due to Orthopnea, does doing exercise have any effect on Orthopnea.

Methodology and Process: Total population of 200  was taken for this study, the population was undertaken according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria.The individuals were given brief introduction and written consent was taken. Data collection sheet and orthopnea related questionnaire were provided to the individuals. Data was obtained and responses were analysed under the guidance of the statistician.

Results: The prevalence of orthopnea in older individuals was 12.57% with a P value of less than 0.0001 and Chi square value 136.03. Majority of the individuals were above 80's and some were above 75 years old.

Conclusion: According to the data analysis prevalence of orthopnea was only 12.57% in older individuals. Co morbid status, exercise habits also had impact on the perception of orthopnea. Sleep habits like use of pillows, sleeping position, nocturnal awakenings were impacted by orthopnea.