Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): What You Need to Know?
Verified by Dr Jayalakshmi T K, Sr Consultant Pulmonology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA is a common sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to the temporary collapse of the airway. These interruptions reduce oxygen levels and disrupt sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and various health risks.
Symptoms of OSA
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Pauses in breathing noticed by a bed partner
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability or mood changes
Risk Factors
- Excess weight: People with obesity are more prone to OSA.
- Neck circumference: A thicker neck can narrow the airway.
- Aging: OSA is more common in middle-aged and older adults.
- Gender: OSA is more prevalent in men, though postmenopausal women also face increased risk.
- Family history: OSA may run in families.
- Alcohol, smoking, and sedative use: These can relax throat muscles and exacerbate OSA.
- Nasal congestion: Chronic congestion may worsen OSA.
Why Is OSA a Concern?
Untreated OSA can lead to:
- High blood pressure: Frequent drops in blood oxygen levels during sleep strain the cardiovascular system.
- Heart disease: Increased risk of heart attacks, irregular heartbeats, and heart failure.
- Stroke: OSA can increase the risk of strokes.
- Type 2 diabetes: OSA is linked with insulin resistance.
- Daytime fatigue: Chronic drowsiness affects daily functioning, increasing the risk of accidents.
Diagnosis of OSA
- Sleep Study (Polysomnography): This overnight test monitors breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity to confirm OSA.( This is gold standard and 1st choice especially for patients with co existing conditions)
- Titration sleep study: Once the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is made, the treatment is with the help of a CPAP or BIPAP machine which gives a positive pressure to keep the airway open. In this study, we are able to diagnose what pressure is required to keep the airway open.
- Home Sleep Apnea Testing: In some cases, this simpler test can be done at home to measure breathing patterns.
Treatment Options
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A machine that delivers air pressure through a mask to keep your airway open during sleep.
- Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake can significantly improve symptoms.
- Oral appliances: Custom-made devices worn in the mouth during sleep can help keep the airway open.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be required to remove tissue or adjust the airway structure.
How Can You Reduce Your Risk?
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid alcohol and sedatives before bed.
- Sleep on your side rather than on your back.
- Treat allergies or nasal congestion to improve airflow.
In conclusion, Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a serious condition that affects sleep quality and overall health. With timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, such as lifestyle changes or CPAP therapy, individuals can manage OSA effectively and reduce the associated health risks. If you suspect you have OSA, it’s important to seek medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and care.
Connect with our expert, Dr Jayalakshmi T K, Sr Consultant Pulmonology at Apollo Hospitals Navi Mumbai
Call 022 6280 6280 for an appointment