Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Question 1

What is this describing?

Intermittent closure of pharyngeal airway causing apnoeic episodes during sleep. Terminated by partial arousal.

Answer 1

Obstructive sleep apnoea

Question 2

What is this a presentation of?
Obese, middle-aged man with snoring and day-time drowsiness. Partner may describe episodes of lack of breathing in sleep. Morning headache, decreased libido, reduced cognitive performance.

Answer 2

Obstructive sleep apnoea

Question 3

What are the complications of obstructive sleep apnoea?

Answer 3

Pulmonary hypertension and type 2 respiratory failure.

Question 4

How is a suspected obstructive sleep apnoea investigated?

Answer 4

1. Simple - pulse oximetry, video recording

2. Polysomnography - oxygen sats, airflow, ECG, EMG chest is diagnostic

Question 5

What is the management for obstructive sleep apnoea?

Answer 5

1. Weight reduction
2. Avoid alcohol and tobacco
3. CPAP via nasal mask during sleep