Nasal Obstruction Considerations in Sleep Apnea

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a highly prevalent condition in the context of the global obesity epidemic with significant medical comorbidities and psychosocial implications. The first-line treatment of OSA is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). There is evidence to demonstrate an association between nasal obstruction and OSA. Therefore, medications and surgical interventions to address nasal obstruction may play a role in the treatment of OSA. In addition, surgical correction of nasal obstruction has been shown to improve CPAP tolerance and compliance.

Keywords: Nasal obstruction; Nasal surgery; Obstructive sleep apnea; Septoplasty; Sleep-disordered breathing; Turbinate reduction.