What Is Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome?

Upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) is a sleep disorder that is characterized by frequent partial obstructions of the upper airway during sleep. These obstructions can cause a number of symptoms, including:

* Loud snoring

* Frequent awakenings

* Difficulty breathing

* Gasping for air

* Morning headaches

* Daytime sleepiness

UARS is different from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is characterized by complete obstructions of the upper airway. However, the two conditions can share some of the same symptoms.

UARS is often undiagnosed because it can be difficult to diagnose. Many people with UARS do not seek medical attention for their symptoms, and even if they do, doctors may not be able to identify the condition.

Diagnosis

UARS is diagnosed based on a person's symptoms and the results of a sleep study. A sleep study is a test that records a person's brain activity, breathing, and other body functions while they sleep. If the sleep study shows that a person has frequent partial obstructions of the upper airway, they may be diagnosed with UARS.

Treatment

There are a number of treatments for UARS, including:

* Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol and smoking, and sleeping on your side

* Nasal surgery to improve airflow

* Oral appliances to help keep the airway open

* Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy to deliver pressurized air to the airway

The best treatment for UARS will vary depending on the individual. If you think you may have UARS, talk to your doctor to discuss your symptoms and treatment options.

Prognosis

UARS is a chronic condition, but it can be managed with treatment. Most people with UARS can experience significant improvement in their symptoms with the right treatment.