Obstructive sleep apnea in women

Abstract

Obstructive sleep apnea is a complex disorder characterized by periodic cessation of breathing during sleep. Classically, men exclusively have been evaluated for mode of presentation or associated morbidity that accompanies obstructive sleep apnea; minimal investigation has been undertaken with regard to the female population. Recent literature indicates that obstructive sleep apnea is much more prevalent in women than previously recognized and is increasingly underdiagnosed. We present a review of a large cohort of women with obstructive sleep apnea, with specific attention to presenting symptoms, coexisting medical problems, and surgical efficacy. The study group comprised 58 women with the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea; we analyzed the group for presentation, polysomnographic findings, and therapeutic management. We reviewed cases for medical management or surgical intervention. In the surgery group, each patient was evaluated with polysomnography before and after surgery. Significant coexisting medical problems were identified in both groups. We address the success of surgical intervention.