Signs and Symptoms of OSA
- Snoring
- Daytime sleepiness/fatigue
- Nocturnal awakenings
- Periods of silence terminated by loud snoring or gasping
- Awakening with a choking sensation
- Memory loss or inability to concentrate during the day
Risk Factors of OSA
- Obesity
- Thick neck
- Small airway
- Craniofacial abnormalities or jaw structure that is smaller than normal
What is OSA?
- OSA is a sleep disorder caused by narrowing or closure of the throat during sleep. In most people, this narrowing doesn’t affect breathing during the day.
- OSA is a serious condition that can reduce your ability to perform daily tasks and affect long term health. It is estimated that up to 26% of all adults are at high risk for having OSA.
- OSA often goes unrecognized and undiagnosed because these problems often appear slowly and progress over time.
As shown in the image above, OSA occurs when your throat muscles relax during sleep, causing the throat to narrow or close. The suspension of breathing from a completely blocked airway is an obstructive apnea. A partially blocked airway, with reduced airflow is a hypopnea.
Medical Comorbidities Influenced by OSA
- Hypertension
- Depression/anxiety
- Diabetes
- Strokes
- Heart disease
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Poor memory/concentration
Diagnosis of OSA
If you or your partner is suffering from the symptoms of OSA, consult your health care professional for a referral to a sleep disorder specialist. The sleep specialist will evaluate your symptoms and may conduct a sleep study to determine whether you suffer from OSA and, if so, the most beneficial treatment.
Treatment of OSA
- Weight loss
- Minimize alcohol, narcotics or muscle relaxers
- Positive airway pressure (PAP)
- Oral appliance fitted specifically for sleep apnea.
