What causes the airway to collapse during sleep?
Extra tissue in the back of the airway, such as large tonsils.
Decrease in the tone of the muscles holding the airway open.
The tongue falling back and closing off the airway.
How many people have OSA?
4 in 100 middle aged men and 2 in 100 middle aged women
Most remain undiagnosed and untreated
OSA is as common as adult asthma
Oconee Sleep Center, llc • 506 Jackson Street Vidalia, Ga. 30474 • (912) 388 - 4556 • (866) 713 - 8064 • Fax (912) 538 - 8404
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
OSA is a condition in which a person stops breathing repeatedly during sleep.
Breathing stops because the airway collapses and prevents air from getting into the lungs.
Sleep patterns are disrupted, resulting in excessive sleepiness or fatigue during the day.
What happens if OSA is not treated?
increased risk of:
high blood pressure
heart disease and heart attack
stroke
fatigue-related accidents
decreased quality of life
What should you do if you suspect you have OSA?
See your doctor. Evaluation by a doctor specializing in sleep disorders is recommended.
Have a sleep study done. A sleep study can provide the doctor with information about how you sleep and breathe, and your diagnosis add treatment options.
What is the treatment for OSA?
Most common is CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
Surgery
Oral appliances
OSA is a serious potentially life-altering health issue that may lead to life-threatening conditions but is
Easily identified
Effectively treated
