Diagnosis

To know if you have OSA, you need to go for:

• Detailed clinical assessment Flexible nasoendoscopy – this is a procedure where a thin flexible camera is passed through your nose and throat for examination
• Overnight sleep study
• Home sleep study

Is OSA Common?

Based on a local study, almost one in three Singaporean adults (31%) have OSA. However, majority were previously undiagnosed.

Measuring the Severity of OSA

The Apnea Hypopnoea Index (AHI) is used to measure the severity of OSA. Based on every hour that you sleep at night, the AHI can measure:

• Number of times your airflow is reduced (hypopnoeas)
• Number of times your airflow is blocked (apneas)

There are four categories under the AHI:

• Normal: Less than 5 times
• Mild OSA: 5 to 15 times
• Moderate OSA: 15 to 30 times
• Severe OSA: 30 or more times

How are Snoring and OSA treated?

• Lifestyle Modifications and Weight Management

  Adopting a healthy lifestyle and good sleep habits are recommended. Those who are overweight should also keep their weight in check.




• Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Therapy

  By using a face mask throughout the night, this method eases the pressure in your airways. It is the most effective therapy for OSA, but discuss with your doctor first to see if this is suitable for you.




• Oral Appliance

  You are required to wear a mouthpiece during sleep to keep your airway open. The mouthpiece helps to change the position of your tongue or move your jaw forward.




• Positional Therapy

  This helps you to avoid sleeping on your back and may be effective for some OSA patients.




• Upper Airway Surgery

  You could also consider surgery if you are unable to tolerate Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy and if surgery is recommended by your doctor.