Manifestations and consequences of obstructive sleep apnoea

Over the last two decades the diagnostic tools used in sleep medicine have developed enormously, making it possible to study the interaction of sleep-related breathing disorders (SRBD) with cardiovascular function and the autonomic nervous system, as well as the effects of SRBD on a variety of physiological processes during wakefulness. Different modes of nasal ventilation are now available, allowing all forms of SRBD to be treated. If early diagnosis and treatment are provided, the acute and long-term sequelae of SRBD can be prevented. In addition to the care and treatment of patients with severe obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome (OSAS), future patient management will need to focus on patients with milder forms of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). In particular, the consequences of SRBD on cardiac arrhythmias, arterial hypertension and hypersomnolence are discussed, considering epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects. Some economical issues arising from SRBD are also discussed, and the authors conclude that a Europewide programme for early detection, treatment and prevention of SRBD is required. This could make a large contribution to the reduction of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality and also reduce the incidence of "human error catastrophes" due to hypersomnolence.