Sleep Apnoea & Neuromuscular Respiratory Failure

Question 1

Definition of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome

Answer 1

Recurrent episodes of upper airway obstruction which leads to apnoea during sleep

Question 2

Pathophysiology

Answer 2

Obesity, Narrow pharynx, Muscle relaxation lead to repeated closure of the upper airway - hence snoring, oxygen desaturation

Question 3

Aetiology

Answer 3

Hypertension

Increased risk of stroke and heart disease

Question 4

Symptoms

Answer 4

Heavy snoring
Daytime somnolence
Poor concentration
Inability to sleep

Question 5

Investigations

Answer 5

Overnight sleep study
Epworth questionnaire
OSA severity

Question 6

OSA severity

Answer 6

Desaturation rate:
0-5 NORMAL
6-15 MILD
15-30 MODERATE
>30 SEVERE

Question 7

Treatment

Answer 7

Weight reduction
Alcohol consumption reduction
Continuous positive air pressure
Mandibular Repositioning Splint