Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Excerpt

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is characterized by episodes of a complete (apnea) or partial collapse (hypopnea) of the upper airway with an associated decrease in oxygen saturation or arousal from sleep. This disturbance results in fragmented, nonrestorative sleep. Other symptoms include loud, disruptive snoring, witnessed apneas during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. OSA has significant implications for cardiovascular health, mental illness, quality of life, and driving safety.

This article discusses the etiology of OSA, its epidemiology, clinical manifestation, and management. Other types of sleep disorders and breathing (central sleep apnea, upper airway resistance, and obesity hypoventilation) will be discussed separately. See Figures. Central and Obstructive Apnea, Polygraph; Sleep Polygraph, 30 Second Window; Sleep Polygraph, 120 Second Window; Sleep Apnea Clinical Assessment 'and Sleep Testing Modalities, Sleep Apnea.