Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), also known as sleep apnea, is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, referred to as apneas, occur when the upper airway is partially or completely blocked, leading to interruptions in the flow of oxygen to the body. The obstructive nature of this condition is associated with the collapse or narrowing of the throat muscles and tissues.
Individuals with OSA often experience symptoms such as loud snoring, gasping or choking sounds during sleep, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, dry mouth, and difficulties concentrating. These interruptions in breathing can disrupt the natural sleep cycle and prevent individuals from reaching deep, restorative sleep stages, resulting in excessive daytime fatigue.
OSA is commonly diagnosed through a sleep study called a polysomnography, which monitors brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and respiratory patterns during sleep. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which measures the number of breathing interruptions per hour of sleep, is used to classify the severity of OSA.
Treatment options for obstructive sleep apnea aim to open the airway and restore regular breathing during sleep. These may include lifestyle changes like weight loss and healthy sleep habits, the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices to provide a constant airflow, oral appliances that reposition the jaw and tongue, and, in severe cases, surgical interventions to remove excess tissues or repair structural abnormalities in the throat.
Untreated OSA can lead to numerous health complications, including cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, metabolic disorders, memory and concentration issues, and an increased risk of accidents due to daytime sleepiness. Therefore, early recognition and effective management of obstructive sleep apnea are crucial for improving overall sleep
