Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome implications on health and adherence to CPAP treatment

Abstract

Respiratory disorders during sleep have as a general characteristic the alteration of the respiratory cycle while sleeping. The most outstanding characteristic of Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome (OSA) is the partial (hypopnea) or total (apnea) obstruction of the upper airway that occurs repeatedly during sleep. The OSA is global public health issue. When it is not treated, OSA represents a cost two or three times higher of the institutional resources for health. Studies conducted in different countries indicate that the prevalence of the OSA goes from 2% to 10% in general population. The OSA is a serious sleep disorder that has negative implications on multiple systems of the organism. It is associated with hypertension, diabetes and the metabolic syndrome. When OSA coexists with a heart disease or ischemic heart disease, it significantly raises the probability of a heart failure. The use of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is so far the most effective method for OSA treatment. Intervention at different levels (physiological, educational and psychological intervention) appears to be important in adherence to CPAP treatment.