Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder.

Explanation:

• There are several types of sleep apnea, but the most common is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This type of apnea occurs when the throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep. A noticeable sign of OSA is snoring.
• Symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep, abrupt awakenings accompanied by gasping or choking, awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat, morning headache, difficulty concentrating during the day, mood changes such as depression or irritability, high blood pressure, and decreased libido.
• Treatments include continuous positive airway pressure, mouthpiece, surgical removal of tissue, upper airway stimulation, jaw surgery, or a surgical opening in the neck

Reference:

Obstructive sleep apnea - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic