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ACP issues guidelines for obstructive sleep apnea diagnosis

The American College of Physicians recently released evidence-based clinical practice guidelines for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea.

“Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious health condition that is associated with cardiovascular disease, hypertension, cognitive impairment and type 2 diabetes,” David Fleming, MD, FACP, president of the American College of Physicians, said in a press release. “It is important to diagnose individuals with unexplained daytime sleepiness so that they can get the proper treatment.”

According to the guidelines, the greatest risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea is obesity. Symptoms include unintentional sleep episodes during wakefulness, daytime sleepiness, unrefreshing sleep, fatigue, insomnia and snoring.

The American College of Physicians recommends sleep studies for patients with unexplained daytime sleepiness as well as a polysomnography for diagnostic testing. When polysomnography is not available, a home-based portable monitor should be used for testing.

“Diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea is high value care,” Fleming said. “Prior to diagnosis, patients with obstructive sleep apnea have higher rates of health care use, more frequent and longer hospital stays, and greater health care costs than after diagnosis.”

Disclosure: See the study for a complete list of the researchers’ financial disclosures.