Sleep Disorders:  
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Narcolepsy
RLS/PLMD
Insomnia
Pediatric

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSA)

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome is a potentially life-threatening medical condition in which the upper portion of the air passage leading to the lungs becomes too narrow during sleep resulting in insufficient air flow.

Why does the airway narrow during sleep?

When awake the brain stimulates muscles in the upper airway which dilate and hold the airway open. During sleep these muscles relax and in some individuals the airway simply becomes too small to support adequate air flow.

What places people at risk for developing OSA?

Conditions which crowd, narrow or obstruct the airway/nose may lead to OSA. Large tonsils/adenoids, a small or recessed chin, large tongue, deviated nasal septum and overbite are all risk factors for OSA. A long soft palate/uvula, the tissue that hangs down in the back of the throat, can also contribute to this condition. Being overweight is one of the greatest risk factors of all.

How do I know if I might have OSA?

If you have been told that you appear to stop breathing, gasp or snore loudly during sleep you should consult with your physician or seek consultation with a sleep specialist. Being sleepy when awake and awakening feeling unrefreshed are common symptoms of OSA.

Why do people often feel tired or sleepy if they have OSA?

When the airway narrows during sleep the brain must often correct this problem to prevent serious complications from developing. It does so by arousing and sending a message to the airway muscles to reopen the air passage. These arousals can disrupt the quality of sleep without the individual ever being aware of the occurrences.

In what way can OSA be life-threatening?

Generally there are 2 primary reasons OSA can lead to premature death and disability. Some patients suffer sleep related accidents at work or while driving. OSA also is a risk factor for developing cardiovascular disease such as high blood pressure, heart failure, heart attack and stroke.

How is OSA diagnosed?

After a consultation with a sleep specialist a sleep study may be ordered. This study often consists of spending the night at a sleep center. The study typically takes place at night in a bedroom-like setting. Breathing, heart activity, brain waves and oxygen levels are some of the body’s functions that are measured with monitoring devices (typically adhesive pads).

What treatments are available for OSA?

Depending on the study results treatment may consist of weight loss, a dental device, surgery, restricting sleep to a particular position and/or CPAP.

What is CPAP?

CPAP is arguably the best immediate treatment for OSA. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure and consists of a mask, tubing and lightweight unit which generates airflow. The CPAP machine pulls air in from the room and pushes it through a long, flexible and lightweight tubing to a mask which typically fits over the nose and is held in place by a soft elastic band or headgear. Once the air reaches the mask it is not forced into the lungs but rather overflows through exhalation ports/vents. This creates a greater pressure inside the mask than outside. The increased pressure holds the airway open so the individual can breathe without suffering a drop in oxygen level or arousals in the brain. Subsequently users often awaken feeling more rested/refreshed and are at lesser risk of serious medical complications. Thus CPAP is not a ventilator but rather maintains the airway by functioning as an air pressure splint.

Is CPAP difficult to adjust to?

As with most things this varies from person to person. Some people take to CPAP like a “fish to water”; some never seem to adjust well but most people experience an adjustment phase lasting days to weeks and sometimes months. The benefits of CPAP can be tremendous rewards for patience and persistence. There are some side effects and other issues that may affect tolerance of CPAP however these can usually be addressed with the assistance of a health care provider. For this reason the Alabama Sleep Clinic has created the “CPAP Clinic” to assist patients in their adjustment to CPAP.

Read more about our CPAP Clinic ›

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