SLEEP APNEA

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of complete (apnea) or partial (hypopnea) blockage of the upper airway during sleep. Here's a brief overview of its diagnosis and severity categories.

 

Diagnosis:
OSA is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, either in a sleep lab or at home. The main measure used is the Apnea-Hypopnea Index (AHI), which represents the number of apneas and hypopneas per hour of sleep.Definitions:

• Apnea: A complete pause in breathing for at least 10 seconds

• Hypopnea: A partial reduction in airflow, usually defined as a decrease of at least 30% for 10 seconds or more

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Severity Categories:

Based on the AHI, OSA is classified into the following categories:

1. Normal/Minimal: AHI < 5 events per hour

2. Mild OSA: AHI 5 to 14 events per hour

3. Moderate OSA: AHI 15 to 30 events per hour

4. Severe OSA: AHI > 30 events per hour

 

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Other factors considered in diagnosis include oxygen desaturation levels and symptoms like daytime sleepiness. The Respiratory Disturbance Index (RDI) is sometimes used, which includes other subtle breathing irregularities in addition to apneas and hypopneas.This classification helps healthcare providers determine the appropriate treatment approach, which may range from lifestyle changes for mild cases to the use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices for more severe cases.

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Various therapeutic options are now available, but they each have benefits and efficacy profiles that should be considered carefully.  Read more about OSA Therapy here.