Understanding obstructive sleep apnoea.

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is characterised by various signs and symptoms, but specifically by the occurrence of repetitive episodes of partial or complete collapse of the upper airway, which prevents breathing. This is known as apnoea. Episodes of apnoea are usually accompanied by: loud snoring, excessive daytime sleepiness and a reduction of blood oxygen saturation. OSA is not a condition that develops spontaneously; rather it can best be described as a continuum of snoring. It is estimated to affect around four per cent of men and two per cent of women. The lack of awareness among the general population and physicians means that an estimated 80 to 90 per cent of people with OSA have not received a clinical diagnosis.