Continuous positive air pressure improves orthonasal olfactory function of patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

Objective: Recent studies have suggested that patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) might be affected by olfactory impairment. However, more evidence is needed on the effect that OSA has on the chemical senses (olfaction and gustatory) of these patients, and whether continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) treatment might help to reverse possible impairment.

Methods: A prospective study was conducted with 44 OSA patients (17 female and 27 male, mean age 54 ± 9.