Alternative Names
Sleep apnea – obstructive; Apnea – obstructive sleep apnea syndrome; Sleep-disordered breathing; OSA
Definition of Obstructive sleep apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which pauses in breathing occur during sleep because the airway has become narrowed, blocked, or floppy.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
All of the muscles in your body become more relaxed during sleep. This includes the muscles that help keep the airway open and allow air to flow into the lungs.
Symptoms
A person who has obstructive sleep apnea often is not aware of the apnea episodes during the night. Often, family members witness the periods of apnea.
Signs and tests
The health care provider will perform a complete history and physical exam. This will involve carefully checking your mouth, neck, and throat. You may be given a survey that asks a series of questions about daytime sleepiness, sleep quality, and bedtime habits.
Treatment
The goal is to keep the airway open so that breathing does not stop during sleep.
Expectations (prognosis)
With treatment, the symptoms of sleep apnea should be totally corrected.
Review
Denis Hadjiliadis, MD, Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 9/15/2010
