A so-called “electronic
nose” that can detect and analyze molecules in breath has shown promise in
diagnosing obstructive
sleep apnea (OSA), a potentially deadly sleep disorder suffered by tens of
millions of Americans.
Currently, OSA is most
often diagnosed
through an overnight sleep test, which can be costly and, for many, intrusive
and technically intensive. But according to the results of a study published in
the Oct. 25 edition of the European
Respiratory Journal, an electronic nose demonstrated it may be able to
confirm OSA by detecting upper-airway inflammation, which is common among those
with obstructive sleep apnea.
Electronic noses are
already used to distinguish between some chronic diseases. The devices work by
analyzing the nature of organic matter present in breath. In a test of 40
patients, researchers found the electronic nose effectively diagnosed OSA with
about 93 percent accuracy.
In addition to being a
useful diagnostic tool for sleep apnea, researchers found the device was also
useful for ruling out OSA in some patients. The findings of the electronic nose
could also be used by doctors to decide whether a patient should undergo more
thorough evaluation for sleep apnea or other conditions.
If you or a loved one
snores nightly or experiences other symptoms of sleep apnea, a dentist with
experience in the field of dental sleep
medicine can help you determine if you have sleep apnea as well as
recommend a customized treatment option for you.
Please contact IHateCPAP.com to
locate a qualified sleep dentist near you.