Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) refers to a group of conditions characterized by abnormal breathing patterns during sleep, the most common of which is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). These disorders result in repeated interruptions of breathing due to partial or complete obstruction of the upper airway, leading to fragmented sleep and decreased oxygen levels in the blood. Symptoms may include loud snoring, gasping during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and poor concentration. Risk factors include obesity, aging, male gender, and anatomical abnormalities of the airway. Diagnosis is typically confirmed through a sleep study (polysomnography), which records brain activity, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns. Treatment varies depending on the severity and may involve lifestyle changes such as weight loss and sleeping position adjustments, use of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices to keep the airway open during sleep, oral appliances, or, in some cases, surgical intervention. Early recognition and management are crucial to prevent complications such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and impaired quality of life.
