Sleep Disorders: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive sleep apnea is when a person stops breathing during
sleep because his/her airway collapses and prevents air from getting
into the lungs. The airways collapse because of extra tissue
in the back of the throat such as large tonsils or uvula, a decrease
in the tone of the muscles holding the airway open, or certain jaw
or facial structures or attributes such as a recessed chin.
Symptoms:
- Chronic Snoring
- Severe morning Headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory difficulties
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Depression
- Irritability
- Sexual Dysfunction
- Hypertension
Treatment
Positive airway pressure is the most effective and preferred treatment
of choice for obstructive sleep apnea is a continuous positive airway
pressure device (CPAP) or a Bi-Level positive airway pressure device
(BiPAP). A mask worn over the nose during sleep directs air from
the blower through the nasal passages and into the throat.
This holds the airway open, allowing more normal breathing to occur.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to the following serious
health risks:
- High blood pressure
- Heart attack
- Fatigue-related motor vehicle and work accidents
- Heart disease
- Stroke
- Decreased quality of life
For more information on Obstructive Sleep Apnea please visit the
National Sleep Foundation at www.sleepfoundation.org
Epworth
Sleepiness Scale
|
