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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that causes repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, called apneas, occur when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked, making it more difficult for air to pass through.

People with OSA often snore, though it’s worth noting that not everyone who snores has the condition.

Symptoms and Risks of Untreated OSA

OSA disrupts normal sleep patterns and lowers oxygen levels in the blood, which can cause a range of symptoms and long-term health risks. Common symptoms include:
  • Loud snoring and gasping during sleep
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness
  • Irritability and mood changes
  • Memory lapses and difficulty concentrating
  • Personality changes and poor work performance
If untreated, OSA can increase the risk of serious health conditions, including:
  • Cardiovascular disease – Higher risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke
  • Respiratory complications – Low oxygen levels can impact lung function
  • Cognitive and mood disorders – Depression, headaches, and memory problems
  • Metabolic effects – Weight gain and increased likelihood of type 2 diabetes
  • Accidents and injuries – Daytime fatigue can lead to road and workplace accidents.

Diagnosis of OSA

Diagnosing OSA requires evaluation by a sleep specialist and an overnight sleep study called a polysomnogram (PSG). This test monitors breathing patterns, heart rate, oxygen levels, and brain activity while you sleep. A trained sleep technician observes the test, and a sleep specialist reviews the results to confirm the diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan.

How OSA Is Treated

The good news is that OSA is treatable, and in some cases, symptoms can improve or even resolve entirely with the right changes.

Some of the treatment options for OSA include:

  • Lifestyle changes – Losing excess weight, exercising regularly, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, and sleeping on your side can significantly reduce or eliminate symptoms in many people.
  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) – A CPAP machine delivers steady air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep. It can be highly effective, especially in moderate to severe cases.
  • Oral appliances – These are custom-fitted devices worn in the mouth to help keep the airway open, often used in mild to moderate OSA.
  • Surgery – In some instances, surgical procedures may be considered to remove obstructions in the airway when other treatments have not been successful.

Next Steps for Managing OSA

If you suspect you have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), taking the right steps early can help protect your health and improve your sleep quality. Here’s what to do:

  • Speak to a healthcare provider or sleep specialist – If you’re experiencing loud snoring, gasping for air, excessive daytime tiredness, or frequent nighttime awakenings, a professional evaluation is essential.
  • Ask about a sleep study (polysomnogram) – This test can confirm whether you have OSA and guide the most effective treatment options.
  • Start with lifestyle changes where possible – Even small adjustments to your routine, weight, or sleep position can make a noticeable difference.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a serious but manageable condition. With proper diagnosis, targeted treatment, and professional guidance, you can take control of your symptoms and achieve better, more restorative sleep.(1)(2)

* In British English, sleep apnea is often spelled sleep apnoea

References

  1. The London Sleep Centre (n.d.) Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA). Available at: https://londonsleepcentre.com/sleep-disorders/.
  2. Epstein, L. J., et al. (2009). Clinical guideline for the evaluation, management and long-term care of obstructive sleep apnea in adults. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 5(3), 263–276. Available at: https://jcsm.aasm.org/doi/10.5664/jcsm.27497
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