What are the causes of OSA?

Both men and women of all ages may suffer from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea. The related symptoms of excessive daytime sleepiness affects an estimated 4% of men and 2% of women in the country.

During sleep muscles in the neck relax and cause a partial closure of the airway which in turn causes the soft tissue to vibrate creating the sound of SNORING.

In Snorers with OSA the relaxation continues to the point where the airway becomes blocked which in turn dramatically reduces or stops the flow of air into the lungs.

There are a known number of underlying genetic factors which cause OSA. A number of lifestyle issues have also been identified which exasperate the condition such as weight gain, sleeping tablets, smoking and alcohol consumption, especially in the evening.

The majority of these lead to a loss of upper airway muscle tone and can increase the severity of the condition leading to increased frequency and duration of breathing pauses.