Obstructive Sleep Apnea

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

Obstructive Sleep Apnea, often called OSA, is a common sleep disorder that causes your airway to become narrowed or blocked while you sleep. This can repeatedly interrupt your breathing, prevent you from getting restful sleep, and leave you feeling tired throughout the day. Many people do not realize they have OSA because the most noticeable symptoms happen while they are asleep. A spouse, family member, or caregiver may be the first person to notice loud snoring, pauses in breathing, or gasping during the night.

Common Signs and Symptoms

You may want to speak with your doctor if you experience one or more of the following:

• Loud, regular snoring interrupted by pauses in breathing
• Gasping, choking, or snorting during sleep
• Restless or frequently interrupted sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Irritability or changes in mood
• Memory problems
• Morning headaches
• Depression
• High blood pressure
• Frequent urination during the night
• Reduced sexual function

Certain physical characteristics may also increase the likelihood of OSA, including obesity, a crowded or narrow airway, and a larger neck size, generally more than 17 inches for men or 16 inches for women.

Not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. However, regular snoring combined with breathing pauses, choking, daytime fatigue, or other symptoms should not be ignored.

Epworth Sleepiness Scale

The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a quick questionnaire that measures how likely you are to doze off during everyday activities. Your score can help your healthcare provider determine whether further evaluation or a sleep study may be appropriate.