[How to avoid cardiovascular consequences of the obstructive sleep apnea syndrome?].

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is caused by periodical upper airway occlusion during sleep resulting in snoring, episodes of apnea and excessive daytime sleepiness. OSAS is a risk factor for hypertension, arrhythmias, conduction disorders as well as stroke, coronary artery disease, chronic heart failure and pulmonary hypertension. Early polygraphy and polysomnography and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment reduce risks of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in patients with OSAS.