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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 1998; 19(2): 139-146
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-1009391
Copyright © 1998 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.

Behavioral Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Barbara A. Phillips, Michael I. Anstead, S. Jerry Pinto
  • Pulmonary and Critical Care Division, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, Lexington, Kentucky
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Publication History

Publication Date:
20 March 2008 (online)

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Abstract

Behavioral therapy is an integral part of patient management with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Counseling about the hazards of driving while untreated is of utmost importance. Weight loss can be cured in the small number of patients who actually achieve it; pharmacological therapy shows some promise in this regard. A variety of other behavioral approaches including the lateral decubitus sleeping position, nasal dilators, nasal sprays, and avoidance of unhealthy behaviors may be useful in patients with sleepdisordered breathing.

Key Words:

obesity - driving - lifestyle