What is the definition or description of: obstructive sleep apnea?

Obstructive Sleep Ap: Most common type of sleep apnea, where there is obstruction of upper airways, leading to repetitive pauses of breathing during sleep, lasting 20-40 seconds each.

airway obstruction : Obstructive sleep apnea (osa) or obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea and is caused by obstruction of the upper airway. It is characterized by repetitive pauses in breathing during sleep, and is usually associated with a reduction in blood oxygen saturation. These pauses in breathing, are called "apneas" (literally, "without breath").

Reduced airway: This is a condition in which the airway opening is reduced due to the blocking of it by the tongue or the surrounding throat structures.

Airway obstruction: Sleep apnea has two causes. It may be 'central' or 'obstructive'. Central apnea occurs as a disorder in the way the brain controls breathing. Obstructive sleep apnea is much more common and involves an anatomical blockage of the airway. Usually, the tongue blocks the airway, preventing the passage of air between the a sleep study is needed to diagnose particular type of sleep disorder.

Airway blockage: Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by anatomical structures (the tongue, soft palate and tonsils) blocking the airway between the nostrils and the trachea (lungs). This blockage can be alleviated by a removable appliance constructed by a dentist of by the use of a constant positive airway pressure(cpap) machine that is used at night. A sleep study is needed to fully diagnose the problem.

Breathing pauses: Obstructive sleep apnea (osa) is medical disorder characterized by repetitive breathing pauses during sleep. Signs and symptoms of untreated osa include daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, and unrefreshing sleep. Consult with a local sleep medicine specialist for more information.

Sleep Apnea: An apnea event is defined by pause in breathing for at least 10 seconds and flattening of chest and abdominal belts. 90% reduction in amplitude for atleast 90% of the duration if i recall correctly. The severity of sleep apnea is measured by apnea hypopnea index or ahi. Mild apnea 5 to 15 ahi moderate 15 to 30 ahi severe > 30.