Obstructive Sleep Apnea - Diagnosis &
Treatment
Surgery - Sleep Apnea &
Snoring
Snoring and Pregnancy
FAQs
Snoring Myth
Snoring Celebrities
Your Snoring Experiences
There will always be those that breach the lifestyle
factors and never even snore. There will also be those that have few or
none of the factors mentioned that suffer Obstructive Sleep Apnea,
requiring CPAP. It is certainly true to say that thin people get OSA. In
summary, Obstructive Sleep Apnea can affect anyone at any age, including
children. If your child snores and you are concerned, get them checked
out.
Diagnosis
While there is no definitive diagnostic tool for this condition,
Polysomnography
(PSG)
is widely regarded the most suitable. It is a completely painless,
multi-parametric test that measures brain function (EEG), muscle activity
(EMG), eye movement (EOG), heart rhythm (ECG or EKG), respiratory function
and oxygen saturation levels. The measurement of oral and nasal airflow is
particularly useful in the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnoea.
Historically, these tests were carried out in a sleep lab but there is an
increasing body of thought that places much value on home monitoring.
Despite the technological advances seen in home monitoring, there are
still limitations compared to what a lab can offer. However, these
limitations can be offset by the benefits of monitoring somebody in their
own home – to see what they are normally like.
Treatments
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, pronounced See-Pap) will be discussed first as
it
is the treatment of choice for obstructive sleep apnea.
CPAP is a face mask connected to an air
compressor machine via a tube (around the same width as a garden hose).
Room air is blown from the machine, down the tube and into the person’s
airways. The positive pressure splints open the soft tissue, which would have been causing the obstruction. A
securely fitting mask is needed so that positive air pressure is not lost
around the edges. For this reason, CPAP nasal masks are a good option. For
most people they provide a suitably snug fit, allowing the user more
freedom around the mouth for sips of water and better overall comfort.
The nasal mask is less likely to give the user a sore mouth as
cold, dry air is chanelled through the nose instead. Humidification
systems are offered with some units. If you are normally a mouth breather,
a chin strap is available with the nasal mask to keep your mouth closed during sleep. Otherwise, air would flow out of your mouth instead of into
your throat. Most people tolerate nasal masks well and find that they
don't need the chin strap. Be advised by your doctor or sleep specialist.
If a nasal system suits you, the nasal mask is a good place to start.
Several variations on the nasal CPAP theme have emerged and it is worth
knowing that these are available. Nasal cushions or pillows sit
under the nose rather than around the entire nose. They fit snugly against
each nostril creating a seal. Nasal prongs are another form of nasal CPAP
delivery. Two prongs branch off a main piece and sit inside each nostril,
forming an internal seal. Precise fitting of nasal prongs is crucial.
