Edema and Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Page topic:

This page presents some additional information on edema.

Visitor:

In what locations is edema found in obstructive sleep apnea patients?

Web slave:

Most commonly the edema is found:

• In the extremities
• In the abdomen

 

Visitor:

Why is edema an indicator of obstructive sleep apnea?

Web slave:

My personal opinion is that the presence of some edemas are not a consequence of sleep apnea, but actually may contribute to or is a cause of sleep apnea. However, there may be instances where edema is a consequence of obstructive sleep apnea.

 

 

Visitor:

How can edema cause obstructive sleep apnea?

Web slave:

Edema is an excess of fluid. The excess fluid is found throughout the body, including the airway. The extra fluid in the airway decreases the size of the airway making it more susceptible to collapse/obstruction.

Visitor:

Is there a reason that airway edema is not readily observed?

Web slave:

It is easier to detect edema in the vicinity of bony structures than it is to detect it in the vicinity of soft tissues.

Visitor:

Why is abdominal edema important?

Web slave:

When one is lying on their back, the abdominal contents are cradled/surrounded by portions of the skeleton. When one inhales the only direction the abdominal contents are free to move, is up against gravity.Thus, the abdominal edema presents extra weight for the diaphragm to overcome.

Visitor:

Would you please explain how edema can be a consequence of obstructive sleep apnea?

Web slave:

As I understand it, untreated obstructive sleep apnea leads to right side heart failure and edema.

 

 

Page summary:

Extremity edema and abdominal edema and their influence on obstructive sleep apnea were described.

 

Now is the time to 'page back'.