Patient/caregiver were instructed regarding management measures for obstructive sleep apnea as follows:

  1. Narrowing or closure of the respiratory airways can also occur secondary to factors, such as, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, especially in young children. Enlarged tonsils can lead to closing in on the airways, resulting in obstruction to the airflow pattern, and thus contribute to development of obstructive sleep apnea. These individuals could consider undergoing surgical removal of tonsils or adenoids, which can result in improvement of sleep apnea symptoms.
  2. Individuals with history of stroke & incomplete recovery of motor skills can present with relaxed airway muscles with poor tension in them. Lack of tension in the airways contribute to airway collapse, result in obstruction to the airflow pattern, thus leading to development of obstructive sleep apnea. Appropriate tension in the airway muscles of the throat is needed to maintain them patent and open for the air to flow unobstructed. Compliance with recommended physical & speech therapy interventions for the muscles of the face and mouth can help improve tension in the airways, improve tongue positioning, strengthen the muscles that control the soft palate & uvula, maintain the airways patent, and contribute to unobstructed airflow. This free airflow pattern can help reduce the risk for presentation with episodes of obstructive sleep apnea.
  3. Some individuals can have history of poorly controlled allergies and repeated exposure to upper respiratory infections. Chronic nasal congestion due to allergies and infections can lead to narrowing of airways. This can result in obstruction to the airflow pattern, thus contributing to development of obstructive sleep apnea. Avoiding exposure to triggering allergens and compliance with intake of anti-histamines and antibiotics, as recommended, can help effective control the allergies and infections. This can result in relief from nasal congestion and improved airflow pattern, which can contribute to reduced incidence of obstructive sleep apnea.