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Obstructive sleep apnea   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome; Sleep apnea syndrome; Sleep apnea

Treatment

The objective of treatment is to keep the airway open to prevent apneic episodes during sleep.

Weight management (or intentional weight loss) and the avoidance of alcohol and sedatives at bedtime may relieve sleep apnea in some individuals. If these measures are unsuccessful in stopping sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), a form of mechanical brathing assistance that involves the use of a specially designed mask worn over the nose or nose and mouth at night, may be prescribed. Mechanical devices inserted into the mouth at night to keep the jaw forward are being studied as a form of treatment. Surgery to remove excess tissue at the back of the throat (called a uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or UPPP), to remove enlarged tonsils or adenoids (see tonsillectomy, T and A), or to create an opening in the trachea to bypass the obstructed airway during sleep (tracheostomy) may be helpful if anatomical causes are present.  In some people, surgery to remove blockage of the nose or upper throat may relieve sleep apnea.

Prognosis

When treated correctly, obstructive sleep apnea usually disappears.  Many persons, however, are unable or unwilling to tolerate CPAP, and the syndrome continues.

Complications

Sleep deprivation is a possible complication.

Call Your Health Care Provider If:

Call your health care provider if you have excessive daytime sleepiness, or if you or your family notice symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea. If you have this condition, call if symptoms do not improve with treatment or if new symptoms develop.

Decreased consciousness, extreme somnolence, hallucinations, personality changes, and persistent confusion can indicate an emergency.

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