If you snore loudly, wake up suddenly in the middle of the night, or feel unusually sleepy during the day, these symptoms may not be normal because you might be experiencing Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), a condition that can severely impact long-term health.

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA or Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a condition caused by the obstruction of the upper airway during sleep, resulting in temporary pauses in breathing throughout the night. This causes a drop in blood oxygen levels and unknowingly disrupts sleep quality.

Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Loud and rhythmic snoring
Breathing stops during sleep, sudden awakening in the middle of the night
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Headache upon waking
Decreased concentration, poor memory, irritability
Feeling unrefreshed despite sleeping for several hours

Risks of Untreated OSA

If OSA is not properly treated, it may increase the risk of chronic health problems such as

High blood pressure
Cardiovascular disease
Heart failure
Type 2 diabetes
Stroke
Arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat)
Accidents due to falling asleep, especially in drivers

Risk Groups for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Overweight or obese individuals
Men aged 40 years and above
Individuals with abnormal chin or facial structure
Those who consume alcohol or use sleeping pills
Those with enlarged tonsils or adenoids, especially in children
Those with a relaxed soft palate, large uvula, or large tongue
Those with chronic nasal congestion

Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Medical history taking and physical examination by a specialist
Sleep study (Polysomnography), which monitors body functions during sleep such as breathing, blood oxygen levels, brain waves, and sleep quality stages

Treatment Approaches for OSA

1. Behavioral modifications

Weight loss
Avoid alcohol
Change sleeping position, such as sleeping on your side

2. Use of positive airway pressure device (CPAP)

Helps keep the airway open during sleep, reducing apnea episodes

3. Use of oral appliances

Used to push the lower jaw forward to widen the airway

4. Surgery

Correct abnormal airways, such as surgery to fix a deviated septum, tonsillectomy, tightening the soft palate, or jaw structure adjustment

Prevention and Self-Care

Regularly observe your own symptoms and those around you
If suspicious symptoms occur, consult a doctor for diagnosis
Follow medical advice consistently
Have annual health check-ups, especially if you are in a risk group

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is more than just snoring because it can lead to serious diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or accidents due to falling asleep. If you have suspicious symptoms such as loud snoring, sudden awakening in the middle of the night, or excessive daytime sleepiness, you should promptly get diagnosed to prevent possible complications.

Phyathai 2 Hospital  provides diagnostic and care services for sleep problems by a team of ear, nose, and throat specialists, using modern tools and technology such as Sleep Tests that can accurately analyze problems and plan appropriate treatment for each patient.

Sleep apnea isn't just about snoring, it can also increase your risk of heart and brain disease.