Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome - Diagnosis and Treatment

Overview

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a sleep breathing disorder characterizedby repeated episodes of obstruction of the upper airways during sleep, usually associated witha reduction oxygen saturation of the blood. Snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness are consideredthemost importantsymptoms ofOSAS.Due to its possible consequences, particularly those affectingthe respiratory and cardiovascular systems, the disorder is associated with significant morbidityand mortality. This article gives a brief on review causes, clinical features, evaluation, and therapyof OSAS. As more physicians become familiar with the clinical presentation of OSAS, the number ofpatients diagnosed with this disorder will increase. This should lead to appropriate treatment anda decrease in the mortality rates associated with this disorder.

Key words:
obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, evaluation, treatment.