MedifocusHealth

The physical, psychological, and social consequences of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) can have a significant negative impact on the quality of life of patients who suffer from this condition. In general, the impact of this condition on quality of life is more dramatic for those patients with moderate to severe OSAS as compared to patients with mild OSAS.

Some of the physical, emotional, and social issues that patients with OSAS must confront include:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Fatigue
• Mood swings
• Impaired concentration and/or memory
• Decreased interest in sexual activity
• Increased risk of traffic accidents - Studies have shown that people with OSAS are about 2.5 times more likely to be involved in traffic accidents that people without OSAS
• Decreased role functions and productivity in the home due to excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue
• Decreased productivity at work and increased risk for occupational injuries due to excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue
• Relationship with bed partners who are unable to sleep in the same bed as the patient may be adversely affected.

Some suggestions for dealing with the adverse physical, emotional, and social consequences of OSAS include:

• Notify your health care provider and try to address the specific issues early before they become more difficult to manage.

• Join a sleep apnea support group so you can network with other patients and share tips for coping with the issues that negatively impact your activities of daily living

• Educate your spouse or partner to the greatest extent possible about OSAS. The more they understand about your condition and its consequences, the greater the likelihood that they will be compassionate and supportive when you need them.