[Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome]

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome Abstract. The obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a disorder of the control of breathing in which repetitive collapse of the upper airway during sleep leads to frequent apneas/hypopneas with cyclic oxygen desaturation and arousals. Sleep is fragmented and unrefreshing. The affected patients suffer from an increased tendency to fall asleep, impaired concentration and a reduced quality of life. The consequences of OSAS also include an increased risk of accidents caused by falling asleep as well as cardiovascular diseases. The diagnosis of OSAS is based on a typical history and clinical examination. Overweight, a large neck circumference and a narrow throat are conditions that may suggest an OSAS. The diagnosis is confirmed by sleep examination. The most important treatment for OSAS is the nightly application of continuous positive pressure (CPAP) via a nasal or mouth-nose mask, which usually leads to a rapid improvement of the symptoms. Patients who do not tolerate CPAP therapy can be successfully treated with a mandibular advancement device. Supporting measures are regular and sufficiently long sleeping times, avoidance of smoking and alcohol consumption in the evening as well as weight reduction for obese patients.