What are the symptoms of sleep apnea syndrome?
Apr 14, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Patients with sleep apnea syndrome experience recurrent upper airway collapse and obstruction during sleep, leading to hypoventilation, intermittent hypoxia, hypercapnia, and disrupted sleep architecture. This condition predominantly affects obese middle-aged and elderly men. Common symptoms include snoring during sleep, morning dry mouth, excessive daytime sleepiness, increased nocturia, and difficulty concentrating.
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a complex disorder. Most patients are not fully aware of this condition and often experience multiple uncomfortable symptoms. What are the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome?
What Are the Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome?
Patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome repeatedly experience upper airway collapse and obstruction during sleep, leading to hypoventilation, intermittent hypoxemia, hypercapnia, and disrupted sleep architecture. This condition predominantly affects middle-aged and elderly men who are overweight or obese. Common symptoms include loud snoring during sleep, dry mouth upon waking, excessive daytime sleepiness, increased nocturia, difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, irritability, and anxiety.
Surgical intervention—such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP)—may be considered for younger patients. This procedure involves removal of the uvula, tonsils, and part of the surrounding soft tissue to widen the upper airway, thereby effectively alleviating snoring and apneic episodes. Non-surgical treatment options include nasal continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy and oral appliances. These devices use pressurized air delivered via the nasal passages or an oral appliance to gently pull the soft tissues forward, preventing airway collapse and improving oxygenation.
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome is a multifactorial disease associated with anatomical abnormalities of the upper airway—including mandibular hypoplasia—which may contribute to various systemic disorders. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential. Additionally, patients should maintain a healthy diet—avoiding high-calorie, high-fat foods—and engage in regular physical exercise to improve overall fitness and prevent excessive weight gain, all of which support recovery. We hope this information has been helpful to you.
