Question
You are caring for an 80-year-old male with a history of obstructive sleep apnea diagnosed at age 60 via a sleep study. The patient has been gradually having increased symptomatology from his obstructive sleep apnea and reports snoring on a nightly basis and chronic fatigue throughout the day, requiring him to take multiple naps during the day. Until today the patient has refused any sort of therapy for his obstructive sleep apnea. What treatment in this scenario is the only therapy to have proven improved long-term outcomes?
| A. | Oxygen via closed facemask |
| B. | Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) |
| C. |
Albuterol and ipratropium nebulizer treatments |
| D. |
Diet and exercise regimen |
|
Correct Answer � B Explanation |
 |
Ans. B
Oxygen is used only for those who demonstrate hypoxemia and have an indication for long-term oxygen therapy.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the treatment of choice once obstructive sleep apnea is diagnosed following a sleep study. A sleep study measures the apnea-hypopnea index, which is the number of episodes of apnea and hypopnea divided by the total sleep time.
Albuterol and ipratropium nebulizer treatments are indicated for patients with obstructive airway disease.
Diet and exercise have a role in weight reduction, which is an independent risk factor for developing obstructive sleep apnea.