NYMC Faculty Publications

Therapeutic Options for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Author Type(s)

Faculty

DOI

10.1097/MJT.0b013e318217a59f

Journal Title

American Journal of Therapeutics

First Page

534

Last Page

542

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

1-1-2013

Department

Medicine

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea is a common, chronic disorder characterized by the cessation or reduction in airflow due to periodic mechanical obstruction of the upper airway passage during sleep. Symptoms and signs of sleep apnea include daytime sleepiness, fatigue, poor concentration, snoring, resuscitative snorts, and related occupational accidents. Sleep apnea is classified into 3 types based on its severity and management varies accordingly. The first step in treatment is to identify correctible causes and educate patients on lifestyle modifications. Positive airway pressure is the preferred treatment modality and can be delivered via 3 different modes. Oral appliances are of 3 types and are generally indicated in mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. Surgery is a final therapeutic option that focuses on the removal of excessive tissue from different sites of the pharyngeal airway.

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