Obstructive sleep apnoea: fact not fiction.

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a recognized clinical disorder in which periods of cessation of breathing occur in the presence of inspiratory effort. Because this may have serious cardio-vascular and pulmonary consequences, diagnosis, and adequate treatment are important. Apart from its medical repercussions, OSA adversely affects the quality of life of both the sufferer and his family. This paper aims to give an overview of the complaint, defining and describing the disorder, reporting its signs and symptoms, and discussing its diagnosis and treatment. Particular attention will be given to those areas in which the orthodontist may play an active role.