A review on obstructive sleep apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea, cessation of breathing during sleep, is potentially life threatening and requires prompt intervention. Despite the numerous advancements in our understanding of the pathogenesis and clinical consequences of the disorder, amajority of those affected remain undiagnosed. Simple queries of the patient or bed partner for the symptoms and signs of the disorder, namely, loud snoring, observed apneas, and day time sleepiness, would help identify those in need of further diagnostic evaluation. The orthodontic approach is intended to provide patients with immediate relief from OSA, as well as changes to the airway that may address an underlying cause. It can be treated using surgery, continuous positive airway pressure and oral appliances therapy. This article review some of the basic aspects of this sleep-related disorder, its diagnosis and treatment modalities.