scholarly journals Role of Sensory Stimulation in Amelioration of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

2011 ◽  
Vol 2011 ◽  
pp. 1-12 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mak Adam Daulatzai

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), characterized by recurrent upper airway (UA) collapse during sleep, is associated with significant morbidity and disorders. Polysomnogram is employed in the evaluation of OSA and apnea-hypopnea number per hour reflects severity. For normal breathing, it is essential that the collapsible UA is patent. However, obstruction of the UA is quite common in adults and infants. Normally, important reflex mechanisms defend against the UA collapse. The muscle activity of UA dilators, including the genioglossus, tensor palatini (TP), and pharyngeal constrictors, is due to the integrated mechanism of afferent sensory input to motor function. Snoring is harsh breathing to prevent UA obstruction. Unfortunately, snoring vibrations, pharyngeal suction collapse, negative pressure, and hypoxia cause pathological perturbations including dysfunctional UA afferent sensory activity. The current paper posits that peripheral sensory stimulation paradigm, which has been shown to be efficacious in improving several neurological conditions, could be an important therapeutic strategy in OSA also.

2004 ◽  
Vol 98 (4) ◽  
pp. 301-307 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bing Lam ◽  
Clara G.C Ooi ◽  
Wilfred C.G Peh ◽  
I Lauder ◽  
Kenneth W.T Tsang ◽  
...  

1993 ◽  
Vol 147 (1) ◽  
pp. 190-195 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shinichi Okabe ◽  
Tatsuya Chonan ◽  
Wataru Hida ◽  
Makoto Satoh ◽  
Yoshihiro Kikuchi ◽  
...  

Author(s):  
Gurvir Rai ◽  
Anokhee Thakker ◽  
Hasti Patel

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder in mammals which is characterized by the repeated collapse of the upper airway. It is a known cause of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and, in some cases, death. OSA is commonly treated by medical devices and surgeries. Although effective, these treatments are associated with unwanted side-effects and further complications. In recent years, the role of medicinal marijuana has grown as a potential treatment for sleep disorders. Further research must be conducted to determine the efficacy and safety of cannabis as a treatment for OSA.


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