Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), or more precisely obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS), is a sleep disorder characterized by a cessation of breathing (apnea) or a reduction in airflow (hypopnea). This condition can be severely debilitating.
Its causes are diverse but can be classified into two categories.
They can be obstructive and associated with obesity or metabolic syndrome: this is referred to as "obstructive sleep apnea syndrome" (OSAS). An apnea is considered "obstructive" when it results from respiratory efforts to overcome an obstruction of the upper airways (nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx).
They can also be neurological, caused by abnormal respiratory control without the effort of inspiration seen in the previous case. This is termed "central sleep apnea syndrome" (CSAS).
This syndrome affects not only the quality of life of those affected but also that of their close ones. Indeed, apneas degrade sleep quality (reduced deep and REM sleep, micro-awakenings), leading to excessive daytime sleepiness, sometimes associated with irritability, decreased libido, or depression. Additionally, apneas reduce blood oxygen partial pressure and cause oxygen desaturation. The resulting chronic hypoxemia itself leads to high blood pressure and the onset of other cardiovascular disorders.
One solution: mandibular advancement device
A mandibular advancement device is a double adjustable splint, custom-made in a dental prosthesis laboratory from impressions of the upper and lower jaw. This device positions the mandible, tongue, and other oral structures forward, increasing the vertical dimension to enlarge the pharyngeal space, reduce respiratory resistance, and mechanically keep the airways open during sleep.