Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Symptoms, Causes, and Modern Treatments

Understand Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), its symptoms, causes, and effective treatments like CPAP therapy. Learn how to manage OSA for a healthier sleep in this informative blog.

Key Introduction

If you or your partner snores loudly and struggles with daytime sleepiness, you might be dealing with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). This common yet serious condition affects millions worldwide. Let’s dive into its symptoms, causes, and modern treatments that can help you breathe easier.

What is OSA?

OSA occurs when the upper airway collapses during sleep, causing breathing pauses (apneas) and drops in oxygen levels. This interrupts sleep and leads to fatigue and health risks.

Key Symptoms

• Loud, chronic snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty concentrating

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Obesity and large neck circumference
• Family history
• Smoking and alcohol consumption
• Nasal congestion
• Sleeping position

Modern Diagnosis

• Polysomnography (PSG): The gold standard, done in a sleep lab.
• Home Sleep Apnea Test (HSAT): For moderate to high risk patients.

Effective Treatments

• CPAP Therapy: Keeps airways open with pressurized air.
• Oral Appliances: Repositions the jaw to prevent collapse.
• Surgery: For severe cases or anatomical issues.

Lifestyle Changes

• Weight loss
• Side sleeping
• Avoiding alcohol before bedtime

Conclusion

OSA is more than just snoring—it’s a serious medical condition that can affect heart health, mood, and daily life. Early diagnosis and effective treatment can restore your energy and protect your long-term health.

By:

Dr. Jaykumar Mehta

MBBS (Gold Medallist)

MD; DNB; MNAMS

PD Fellow (Pulmonology)(CMC,Vellore)

Sr. Consultant Interventional Pulmonologist