Year : 2021

Volume : Volume 12

Issue : Issue 4

Address for correspondence :
Dr. Shruti Mullick
dr.shrutimullick@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can be defined as common condition characterized by repeated episodes of nocturnal apnea due to upper airway blockage. OSA causes severe symptoms, such as excessive daytime sleepiness, and is associated with significant cardiovascular abnormalities. At present, there are different treatment options for effective management of this disease. More than three decades after use, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is still considered as the gold standard treatment. Nasal CPAP is very effective in controlling symptoms, improving quality of life, and reducing the clinical sequelae of sleep apnea. Other modalities for positive airway pressure are available for patients with CPAP intolerance or high over pressure. Mandibular advancement devices, particularly if custom made, are effective in mild-tomoderate OSA and provide a viable alternative for CPAP intolerant patients. The role of surgery remains doubtful. Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty is a well-established procedure and can be considered when CPAP treatment has failed, whereas maxillary-mandibular surgery may be suggested to patients with a craniofacial deformity. Minimally invasive methods of treating snoring are gaining trends. Weight loss improves symptoms and morbidity in all obese patients and bariatric surgery is an option in severe obesity. A multidisciplinary approach is necessary for an accurate management of the disease.

Keywords: Obstructive sleep apnea, Continuous positive airway pressure, Nasal continuous positive airway pressure.