Snoring and OSA

Overview of OSA for Otolaryngologist by ENT – HNS Dept with IASSA A workshop on snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea was held at Rajarajeswari Medical College, Bengaluru, by the ENT dept on 25th May, 2013 under the patronage of Sri. A.C. Shanmugam, Chairman RRGI. Parameters like evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea were extensively discussed. The work shop was spearheaded by the Indian Association of Surgeons for Sleep Apnoea (IASSA). The main reason for these disorders is upper airway obstruction (in nose and throat). More than 70% of the general population are snorers and in that more than 80% are having choking spells (Apnoea) with arousals to catch their breath. This leads to dangerous consequences like severe hypertension, heart failures and sudden deaths during sleep. It also affects the person to have excessive day time sleepiness, falling asleep during work and driving with fatal results. It is also a major reason for familial problems like divorce and sexual problems in males causing erectile dysfunction. The major culprits for these disorders are overweight, obesity and changing life styles. Even after life style modification, it is found to continue in these patients. Now we have novel surgeries aiming to expand the throat and nose airway and preventing the obstruction. The above subjects were discussed, deliberated and analyzed in detail. The symposium was concluded with strategies to bring awareness among the general public about snoring and OSA and its dangerous consequences.