RESPIRATORY SENSOR

摘要

A sensor assembly for monitoring the respiration pattern of a subject is disclosed, the sensor comprising a sensor element for exposing to a gas stream exhaled by the subject comprising a first electrode, a second electrode and an active layer extending between the first and second electrodes to provide an electrical path therebetween, the sensor element being responsive to the concentration of water vapour in the gas stream exhaled by the subject, whereby the conductivity of the path between the electrodes varies in response to changes in the concentration of water vapour; a processor for determining the pattern of respiration of the subject; and means for displaying information relating to the determined respiration pattern to a user. The sensor assembly is particular suitable for measuring the respiration rate and/or depth of respiration of the subject. The sensor and method find particular application in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea.