Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Flashcards
What is obstructive sleep apnoea?
A sleep disorder with recurrent episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep, causing apnoea or hypopnoea
Apnoea is a temporary cessation of breathing; hypopnoea is a temporary decrease in breathing.
List risk factors for obstructive sleep apnoea.
- Obesity
- Craniofacial abnormalities
- Increased soft tissue volume
downs syndrome
What is a typical symptom of obstructive sleep apnoea related to daytime function?
Excessive daytime somnolence
This can be quantified using the Epworth sleepiness scale.
What chronic symptom can result from hypercapnia in obstructive sleep apnoea?
Chronic morning headache
What examination finding may indicate obstructive sleep apnoea?
Obesity with large neck circumference
Differentiate obstructive sleep apnoea from central sleep apnoea in terms of snoring.
Snoring is less common in central sleep apnoea
What is the gold standard diagnostic investigation for obstructive sleep apnoea?
Polysomnography
It evaluates brain activity, muscle activity, and respiratory activity.
What are two conservative management strategies for obstructive sleep apnoea?
- Weight loss
- Oral appliances
What is the gold standard treatment for severe cases of obstructive sleep apnoea?
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
List three clinical features of obstructive sleep apnoea.
- Arousal during sleep with choking/gasping
- Habitual snoring
- Restless sleep
What surgical options are available for the management of obstructive sleep apnoea?
- Upper airway surgery
- Bariatric surgery
What medical management can be used to reduce somnolence in obstructive sleep apnoea?
Dopamine reuptake inhibitors (e.g., modafinil)
