Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Snoring, Treatment: Pulmo Sleep Eliksir✓

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition characterized by repeated interruptions of airflow through the upper airway during sleep, while the effort to breathe continues. This disorder is much more common than often assumed, yet it frequently remains undiagnosed. Estimates suggest that a significant portion of the adult population, especially middle-aged men, suffers from obstructive sleep apnea, but most patients do not seek medical attention until symptoms significantly impact their quality of life.

The episodes of stopped breathing appear dramatic to those who witness them – the patient suddenly stops breathing, struggles for air, and finally gasps with loud snoring or choking. However, the person experiencing it is usually unaware of these episodes. Long-term presence of apnea leads to poor sleep quality, frequent awakenings, and nighttime choking sensations, while also increasing the risk of numerous serious health complications.

How Obstructive Sleep Apnea Develops

Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles surrounding the upper airway relax during sleep. Due to reduced muscle tone, the space in the throat may narrow or completely collapse, preventing air from reaching the lungs. This results in a period of apnea – a temporary cessation of breathing.

The development of this disorder is usually gradual and often goes unnoticed for a long time. Early symptoms are most commonly seen in people who already snore, and patients are generally unaware that they stop breathing during the night. Most seek medical attention only after a partner notices disturbed breathing and restless sleep, or when daytime sleepiness becomes so severe that it interferes with daily activities.

People with obstructive sleep apnea often doze off during monotonous activities, which can be especially dangerous while driving. Over time, patients may also experience a gradual cognitive decline—reduced concentration, pronounced forgetfulness, and difficulties performing complex tasks.

Untreated obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk of stroke, heart rhythm disorders, high blood pressure, and heart failure. In advanced cases, central apneas may also occur, when the brain temporarily stops sending signals to breathe, further reducing oxygen supply to the body.

Risk Factors for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Numerous factors increase the likelihood of developing this disorder, the most common being:

• Anatomical structure – people with narrowed upper airways are at higher risk of airway collapse during sleep;
• Gender – OSA occurs almost twice as often in men as in women;
• Age – most commonly seen in people over 60;
• Body weight – obese individuals have up to six times higher risk of developing apnea;
• Smoking – smokers are three times more likely to develop this disorder;
• Snoring – the most common early sign of apnea;
• Nasal obstruction – deviated septum or chronic congestion contributes to breathing difficulties at night.

The presence of multiple risk factors significantly increases the likelihood of disease development and accelerates symptom progression.

Diagnosis of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea is performed in a sleep disorder laboratory using polysomnography. This diagnostic method is completely painless. Thin electrodes are placed on the patient’s skin to monitor brain activity, airflow, heart function, oxygen saturation, and chest movements throughout the night.

Analysis of the collected data allows precise determination of the number and duration of apneas, as well as the severity of the condition. After polysomnography, patients are usually referred for an ENT (ear, nose, throat) examination to identify possible anatomical obstructions contributing to airway narrowing.

Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Untreated sleep apnea has a chronic and progressive course, causing patients to feel increasingly sleepy, suffer memory problems, and face heightened cardiovascular risks. Timely initiation of therapy is therefore crucial.

Patients are advised to:

• Avoid alcohol in the afternoon and evening;
• Avoid sleeping on their back if apneas occur exclusively in that position;
• Lose excess body weight;
• Treat chronic nasal congestion and other ENT problems.

For patients with pronounced anatomical issues, surgical correction or oral appliances that advance the lower jaw to open the airway may be recommended.

However, the most effective treatment for moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea—and according to modern guidelines, even mild cases—is the use of CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy.

CPAP Devices – The Gold Standard in Sleep Apnea Treatment

A CPAP device consists of a turbine that generates continuous positive air pressure, which is delivered to the airway through a mask. This keeps the airway open throughout the night and prevents episodes of stopped breathing.

It is a quiet and comfortable device that easily integrates into daily life. Most patients adapt quickly to CPAP therapy, and the first benefits are visible after just a few nights—better sleep quality, absence of choking, reduced daytime sleepiness, and improved concentration.

Regular use of a CPAP device:

• Normalizes blood pressure;
• Reduces cardiovascular risks;
• Improves cognitive functions;
• Facilitates weight loss;
• Lowers the risk of traffic accidents for drowsy drivers.

Patients treated with CPAP can safely drive and operate machinery, which is not recommended for individuals with untreated apnea.

Why Early Action Matters

Although snoring is often considered harmless, it can be an early sign of a more serious disorder. When episodes of breathing cessation accompany snoring, it is crucial to consult a doctor promptly for timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Obstructive sleep apnea is not a condition to ignore—it affects the entire body and increases the risk of numerous chronic diseases. Timely therapy ensures more restful sleep, better focus, more energy, and long-term health preservation.

Our clinic, Pulmo Sleep Center Eliksir, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and other sleep disorders. Our multidisciplinary team uses modern diagnostic methods and individualized therapeutic approaches to provide patients with better, deeper, and healthier sleep.

Our goal is for everyone who comes to us to receive professional support, clear guidance, and effective solutions that improve quality of life. 

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For more information about our services or if you have any questions, feel free to visit our CONTACT page and get in touch with us. We’re here to help!