OSA is primarily encountered in middle-aged men but can affect both sexes and all age groups. It is often associated with obesity but can not be ruled out based on age, sex, weight or other characteristics alone. Upon examination, OSA patients are typically found to have narrow airways with redundant tissue. Other contributing factors include craniofacial abnormalities, use of alcohol or sedatives before bedtime, a neck size larger than 17 inches, and massively enlarged tonsils and adenoids. Often, those affected attribute their fatigue and other symptoms to age, stress or some other health problem.
Patients frequently seek help after a bed partner or roommate complains.
In others, daytime sleepiness becomes so profound that they can no longer function normally. It is not uncommon for patients to report falling asleep while at their desks, standing in line, driving or even while giving a presentation before a group. Such patients often are misdiagnosed as having narcolepsy. In its most severe form, OSA can be life-threatening, as it leaves the patient more vulnerable accidents on the road or on the job. It has been linked to heart failure, systemic and pulmonary hypertension, and stroke.