Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Question 1

What causes obstructive sleep apnoea?

Answer 1

Collapse of pharyngeal airway

Question 2

What are the risk factors of obstructive sleep apnoea? (5)

Answer 2

• Middle age
• Male
• Obesity
• Alcohol
• Smoking

Question 3

What are the presenting features of obstructive sleep apnoea? (7)

Answer 3

• Episodes of apnoea during sleep (reported by a partner)
• Snoring
• Morning headache
• Waking up unrefreshed from sleep
• Daytime sleepiness
• Concentration problems
• Reduced oxygen saturation during sleep

Question 4

What can severe cases of osa cause? (4)

Answer 4

Hypertension
Heart failure
MI
Stroke

Question 5

What scale is used to assess symptoms of sleep associated with osa?

Answer 5

Epworth sleepiness scale

Question 6

What tests are used to confirm a diagnosis of osa?

Answer 6

Sleep studies

Question 7

What is the non-medical management of osa?

Answer 7

Reversible risk factors should be addressed, with reduced alcohol, smoking cessation and weight loss.

Question 8

What is the first line management of osa?

Answer 8

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines provide constant pressure to maintain airway patency.

Question 9

What surgery can be done in osa?

Answer 9

Surgery is an option but involves significant surgical reconstruction of the soft palate and jaw. The most common procedure is called uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP).