Obstructive sleep apnea in head and neck cancer patients post treatment ... something to consider?

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) occurs due to enlarged tissue such as tonsils, base of tongue or palate, pharyngeal space narrowing, or decreased muscle tone of the pharyngeal dilator muscles. Treatments for head and neck cancer may cause physical changes resulting in OSA. Based on recent anecdotal experience and limited research available looking at the incidence of OSA in post treatment head and neck cancer patients, assessment for signs and symptoms of OSA by otorhinolaryngology nurses seems warranted. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of OSA in the patient with head and neck cancer may significantly improve the person's health and quality of life.