Keywords
Abstract
Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by repetitive episodes of upper airway obstruction during sleep, leading to intermittent hypoxia and fragmented sleep. It is classified into obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea syndrome, each with distinct underlying mechanisms. Sleep apnea is strongly associated with increased risks of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, cognitive impairment, and reduced quality of life. Recent advances in diagnostics, such as home sleep testing and wearable monitoring devices, have improved accessibility to early detection. Treatment strategies include lifestyle modification, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), oral appliances, surgical interventions, and emerging approaches such as hypoglossal nerve stimulation. This article reviews the pathophysiology of sleep apnea, its systemic health consequences, and modern therapeutic options that aim to reduce morbidity and improve patient outcomes.
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