OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated instances of breathing cessation during sleep. It occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, causing temporary blockages that disrupt breathing. These interruptions can lead to loud snoring, choking or gasping for air, and fragmented sleep.

OSA can have serious health implications, including daytime sleepiness, fatigue, impaired cognitive function, and an increased risk of conditions like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It can also impact quality of life and contribute to accidents due to daytime sleepiness.

Risk factors for OSA include obesity, age, gender (more common in men), family history, and certain anatomical factors like a narrow airway or enlarged tonsils. Diagnosis often involves sleep studies, monitoring breathing patterns and oxygen levels during sleep.

Treatments for OSA range from lifestyle changes (weight loss, sleep position modification) to using devices like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines that deliver air pressure to keep the airway open, or in some cases, surgery to correct anatomical issues. Proper management can significantly improve sleep quality and overall health.