Can anatomical and functional features in the upper airways predict sleep apnea? A population-based study in females

Abstract

Conclusion. The importance of clinical findings in the nose and throat, including fiberoptic endoscopy during the Muller maneuver, in predicting sleep apnea is greater in normal-weight than in overweight women. Objectives. The aim of this study was to identify clinical features that could predict sleep apnea in women. Method. From 6817 women who previously answered a questionnaire concerning snoring habits, 230 women who reported habitual snoring and 170 women from the whole cohort went through a full-night polysomnography. A nose and throat examination including fiber endoscopic evaluation of the upper airways during the Muller maneuver was performed in a random selection of 132 women aged 20–70 years. Results. Sleep apnea was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index of ≥ 10. The influence of clinical features on the prevalence of sleep apnea varied between normal-weight and overweight women. A low soft palate, retrognathia, the uvula touching the posterior pharyngeal wall in the supine position, and a 75% or more collapse at the soft palate during the Muller maneuver were all significant predictors of sleep apnea in women with a body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg/m² but not in overweight women.

• OSAS
• women
• BMI
• nose and throat
• Muller maneuver