Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by repetitive episodes of partial or complete blockage of the upper airway during sleep, leading to interrupted breathing and diminished oxygen levels in the blood. These episodes, called apneas, can last for seconds to minutes and usually occur multiple times throughout the night.
The main cause of obstructive sleep apnea is a relaxation or collapse of the muscles and tissues in the throat, which subsequently obstructs the airway. This obstruction leads to a decrease in the flow of air, resulting in loud snoring and pauses in breathing. The diminished oxygen levels trigger the brain to partially awaken, often accompanied by gasping or choking sensations, in order to reopen the airway and restore normal breathing. However, these disruptions prevent individuals with OSA from obtaining restful sleep, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness and drowsiness.
Common risk factors for developing obstructive sleep apnea include obesity, having a large neck circumference, older age, male gender, smoking, and family history. Additionally, certain anatomical features like a small jaw, large tongue, or nasal congestion can contribute to the development of OSA.
If left untreated, obstructive sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Treatment options for OSA typically involve lifestyle modifications, such as weight loss and avoiding alcohol and sedatives, as well as medical interventions like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, oral appliances, or, in severe cases, surgery to correct structural abnormalities in the airway.
