title: The role of nasal obstruction in obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
abstract: In summary, there is much evidence in the literature that nasal obstruction causes obstructive sleep apnea, usually of mild to moderate degree, in many individuals. In addition, it is a contributory factor in individuals with severe obstructive sleep apnea. This appears to occur because of its contribution to upper airway resistance which directly or indirectly results in a reduction in intraluminal pressure during inspiration and collapse. Nasal obstruction via its influence on the so-called nasal-pulmonary reflex, may also result in alveolar hypoventilation. In patients who have symptoms consistent with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and/or other disorders of excessive somnolence, a careful history eliciting findings of possible nasal obstruction as well as a thorough nasal examination is appropriate. If nasal obstruction is present, intervention should be considered as part of the routine therapy for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.
authors.affiliation: Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH.
authors.forename: M J
authors.initials: MJ
authors.lastname: Papsidero
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D015508:Nasal Obstruction / Q000150:complications*; D012891:Sleep Apnea Syndromes / Q000209:etiology*