Patient/caregiver were instructed regarding findings to watch for and report in individuals with obstructive sleep apnea as follows:
- Individuals with sleep apnea must report to the physician regarding any abrupt weight gain. As an individual’s weight plays a significant role in presentation with and management of sleep apnea symptoms, abrupt weight gain can be detrimental to the current plan in place and lead to poor management of sleep apnea. Seeking physician consultation can offer an opportunity for revising the plan of care.
- Individuals with mental health issues, such as, anxiety, depression, and psychosis with co-existing poorly controlled sleep apnea can present with worsening of mental health status, secondary to poor rest. Any worsening of symptoms of mental health conditions and altered behavior patterns in individuals with history should be reported to the physician for further follow-up on sleep apnea management.
- Caregivers of individuals with history of sleep apnea should maintain a close watch on the frequency and duration of apneic spells during the sleep. Any abrupt increase in the frequency and/or duration of apneic spells should be reported to the physician for further follow-up.
