Pathophysiology of Sleep Apnoea
Anatomical Factors:
Anatomical factors play a significant role in the development of sleep apnoea.
In OSA, the collapsibility of the upper airway during sleep is influenced by factors such as
- obesity,
- craniofacial abnormalities, and
- neck circumference.
Adipose tissue deposition around the pharynx can lead to a narrowed airway and increased airway resistance, predisposing individuals to OSA.
Similarly, genetic syndromes that result in craniofacial abnormalities, such as Down syndrome or Pierre-Robin sequence, can contribute to the development of sleep apnoea.