If you have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you should be aware of some important factors that can affect your quality of life. There are also some risk factors for developing the syndrome that you should be aware of. These factors will help you determine if you have OSA and how you can treat it.
CPAP Treatment
One study looked at the relationship between CPAP treatment for obstructing sleep apnea syndrome and adherence to the protocol. Researchers enrolled 42 youth with OSAS and their caregivers, who completed QoL measures specific to the condition. Overall, CPAP use resulted in improved sleep-related quality of life and lower BP. The study also found that CPAP treatment reduced the risk of motor vehicle accidents.
Alcohol Consumption
Alcohol can worsen the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a condition where the upper airway narrows and causes episodes of sleep apnea. The person awakens and resuming breathing is very difficult. Alcohol consumption, even moderate amounts, can reduce the drive to breathe and cause apnea episodes. Alcohol also relaxes the throat muscles and causes collapse of the upper airway, resulting in snoring or complete obstruction.
Weight Loss
A recent study focuses on the association between obstructive sleep apnea and weight loss. Researchers used magnetic resonance imaging to study the effect of weight loss on upper airway structures. The results show that reduction in tongue fat is the primary factor responsible for lessening OSA symptoms. Weight loss is a promising treatment for people with OSA. Ultimately, weight loss should be the primary strategy to reduce OSA symptoms.
Symptoms of OSA
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder characterized by repetitive interruptions of breathing during sleep. Individuals with OSA experience pauses in breathing and/or interrupted sleep, resulting in an overall drop in oxygen levels. Other common symptoms include daytime sleepiness and impaired concentration, impaired memory, and mood disturbance. These symptoms, along with the overall drop in quality of life, have significant consequences for those suffering from OSA.
Improve Quality of Life
The impact of OSA on quality of life is profound. In addition to excessive daytime sleepiness, patients with OSA have higher rates of accidents and medical disability. As such, improved quality of life is a major objective of OSA treatment. Quality of life can be assessed with validated tools, such as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. The results of this study suggest that CPAP therapy is associated with a significantly improved quality of life.
You should improve the quality of life if you have sleep apnea. You should avoid alcohol, and concentrate on weight loss and certain types of treatments as advised by your sleep doctor.
