Maintaining good health hinges on several fundamental aspects, including consistent physical activity, a balanced diet, and quality sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a significant contributor to inadequate sleep, often more common than many realize.
Understanding the Prevalence of OSA
Obstructive sleep apnea is a potentially serious condition characterized by repeated halts in breathing during sleep. It is estimated that around one billion individuals globally are affected by this disorder, with 80 to 90 percent likely undiagnosed, as highlighted by Dr. Rhonda Elloway-Stephens, Doctor of Dental Surgery and Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine.
Who is at Risk for OSA?
Dr. Elloway-Stephens asserts, “OSA can affect individuals of any age and gender.” From infants to the elderly, the prevalence of OSA is escalating annually, with an increase of approximately 7 million cases attributed to rising obesity rates, which stands as one of the primary risk factors for the condition.
Diagnosing OSA: What You Need to Know
The diagnosis of OSA is typically made via an overnight sleep study, which can take two forms:
- Polysomnography: A detailed examination conducted in a hospital or sleep lab, involving extensive equipment that monitors various metrics such as heart rate, brain activity, respiratory patterns, blood oxygen levels, and movements of the legs and eyes.
- Home Sleep Apnea Testing: A simpler test that can be performed at home, assessing parameters like heart rate, airflow, oxygen levels, body positioning, and sometimes snoring intensity.
Both testing methods require analysis by a sleep expert, who will determine a diagnosis based on the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which quantifies breathing interruptions during sleep.
Dr. Elloway-Stephens explicates the classification of OSA severity:
- Mild: 5 to 15 occurrences per hour
- Moderate: 15 to 30 occurrences per hour
- Severe: 30 or more occurrences per hour
The Importance of OSA Diagnosis
Dr. Elloway-Stephens emphasizes, “Quality sleep is fundamental to health, affecting nearly every system within the body.” Restorative sleep is vital for clearing toxins from the brain, aiding physical recovery, processing information, regulating emotions, and bolstering the immune response.
Research indicates that around 80 percent of those with OSA also have associated health issues, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, along with metabolic disorders. Other identified conditions include gastrointestinal issues like peptic ulcer and gastroesophageal reflux, as well as mental health challenges like anxiety, insomnia, and depression.
Additionally, OSA is linked with persistent headaches, irritability, excessive daytime drowsiness, difficulties with concentration, increased risk of early-onset dementia, compromised oxygenation, unhealthy food cravings, and higher instances of accidents, whether at work or on the road, along with complications in interpersonal relationships.
Treatment Options for OSA
The leading treatment for OSA is a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device. This machine provides a continuous airflow through a mask worn during sleep.
“However, many individuals struggle with compliance, with over 65 percent of users discontinuing use due to discomfort or other issues,” notes Dr. Elloway-Stephens.
The alternate effective treatment is oral appliance therapy, which involves a custom-fitted mouth guard crafted by a dental sleep specialist. These appliances are designed to slightly advance the lower jaw and hold the tongue and surrounding tissues away from the airway.
While oral appliances may not suit everyone and are generally less effective than CPAP, they tend to have higher compliance rates as they offer more convenience and comfort. “The key focus should be discovering a treatment that can be used consistently night after night,” asserts Dr. Elloway-Stephens.
It is vital to highlight the importance of awareness and screening. “The only way to ascertain if you have OSA is through testing,” she emphasizes.
This article was initially published in the November 2024 edition of up7op magazine.
