A comprehensive review of obstructive sleep apnea

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a complex disorder characterized by collapse of the upper airway during sleep. Downstream effects involve the cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurocognitive systems. OSA is more prevalent in men than women. Clinical symptoms suggest the diagnosis of OSA but none is pathognomonic of the condition. With rising awareness of OSA and the increasing prevalence of obesity, OSA is increasingly recognized as a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity including systemic and pulmonary arterial hypertension, heart failure, acute coronary syndromes, atrial fibrillation, and other arrhythmias. Pulmonary manifestations include the development of chronic thromboembolic disease, which can then lead to chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH). Neurocognitive morbidities include stroke and neurobehavioral disorders. Screening for OSA includes the use of symptom questionnaires and the diagnosis is confirmed by polysomnography. Management primarily includes the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bi-level positive airway pressure (BiPAP) devices during sleep. Alternate options such as mandibular devices and surgical procedures are considered for certain patient populations.

Keywords

• sleep apnea
• obstructive
• airway obstruction
• sleep apnea syndromes