Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Overview

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep apnea, characterized by repeated collapse of the upper airway during sleep, obstructing airflow and causing pauses in breathing or hypopnea. This leads to intermittent hypoxia and fragmented sleep with multi-system effects.

Symptoms

• Snoring
• Sleep apnea
• Daytime sleepiness
• Waking with a choking sensation at night
• Morning headache

Treatment

Weight loss and side-sleeping; continuous positive airway pressure for moderate to severe cases; upper airway surgery when necessary.

Dietary advice

Control weight, follow a low-fat low-salt diet, eat a small early dinner, and avoid alcohol before bedtime.