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Source link According to Science Daily, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a major health issue that affects millions of adults world-wide, and research is constantly being conducted to improve diagnosis and treatments. A study recently published in the journal Sleep Medicine Reviews suggests that the use of a single-parameter measure of overnight oxygen levels could be used to identify OSA among individuals.
The study was led by researchers at the University of Nebraska, who sought to find an easy and non-invasive way to accurately diagnose OSA. For the study, they monitored the overnight oxygen levels of more than 20,000 adults in the United States, Europe, and Australia. After comparing their findings with pre-existing diagnoses of OSA, the researchers concluded that a single-parameter measure of overnight oxygen levels could accurately predict OSA in individuals.
The researchers believe their findings could help to streamline the diagnosis process for OSA, particularly for those who are unable to access or afford more costly, multi-parameter diagnostic tests. Lead researcher Dr. Mohammad Chaudhary is hopeful that their work will offer clinicians “a screening tool to better identify those more likely to suffer from this serious sleep disorder.”
OSA is a sleep disorder characterized by intermittent breathing pauses during the night, resulting in reduced air flow throughout the throat. It is estimated that up to 24 percent of adults have some form of OSA, and the disorder is most common in men and those over 60 years old. Those with mild OSA may only experience occasional episodes of short pauses in breathing during sleep, whereas those with moderate to severe OSA may experience frequent pauses in breathing. Such episodes can lead to daytime fatigue, excessive daytime drowsiness, and cardiovascular problems.
While the research is promising, more studies are needed in order to determine the accuracy of the single-parameter measure in diagnosing OSA. Until further research is conducted, individuals who suspect they may have OSA should seek a more comprehensive evaluation conducted by a healthcare provider.
