Obstructive sleep apnea

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Obstructive sleep apnea
TermObstructive sleep apnea
Short definitionthe blockage of the airways during sleep, which causes breathing to stop for very short periods of time, commonly caused by excessive relaxation of muscles at the back of the throat
TypeMedical term
SpecialtyGeneral
LanguageEnglish
SourceAMA
Comments


Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common but serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This condition occurs when the muscles in the throat fail to keep the airway open, despite efforts to breathe. OSA affects millions of people worldwide and can lead to significant health issues if left untreated.

Causes

The primary cause of OSA is a blockage of the airway during sleep. This blockage can result from several factors, including obesity, anatomical differences, nasal congestion, and the use of alcohol or sedatives. Genetics and Endocrine Disorders can also play a role in the development of OSA.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of OSA include loud snoring, observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking, morning headache, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. Snoring is often considered a key indicator, though not everyone who snores has OSA.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of OSA typically involves a review of medical history, a physical examination, and a sleep study called a polysomnography. This test records brain waves, oxygen levels in the blood, heart rate, and breathing, as well as eye and leg movements during the study. Sleep Studies have become a critical tool in diagnosing OSA.

Treatment

Treatment for OSA may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or changes in sleep position, the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices, oral appliances, and in some severe cases, surgery. CPAP Therapy is the most common treatment for moderate to severe OSA.

Health Impact

If left untreated, OSA can lead to a number of health problems, including hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and depression. It can also contribute to poor performance in everyday activities, such as work and school, and increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents due to daytime fatigue.

See Also

External links

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