Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training on Daytime Sleepiness in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a sleep disorder marked by partial or complete pauses in breathing during sleep, often caused by a narrowing of the upper airway and muscle weakness. This condition leads to excessive tiredness and daytime sleepiness, affecting patients' quality of life. While the standard treatment, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), improves symptoms, its long-term use compliance is limited, highlighting the need for additional therapies. Researchers are exploring inspiratory muscle training (IMT), which strengthens muscles like the diaphragm to help keep airways open, as a potential supportive treatment for OSA. The study compares two groups: one receiving inspiratory muscle training along with CPAP and one receiving CPAP alone. IMT sessions last 12 to 20 minutes and include three cycles of 30 breaths against resistance using a valve device, with breaks between cycles. Participants will start CPAP treatment and undergo assessments including the Epworth Sleepiness Scale and maximum inspiratory pressure measurement. Follow-up includes a six-week phone check and a visit at 12 weeks to review CPAP use and repeat assessments. Participants will be evaluated at diagnosis and during follow-up visits with questionnaires and pressure measurements to monitor daytime sleepiness and respiratory muscle strength. Researchers measure changes in daytime sleepiness after 12 weeks as the main outcome. The study involves regular monitoring through consultations and phone calls over 12 weeks, with safety and treatment adherence tracked to understand the impact of adding inspiratory muscle training to standard CPAP therapy.

Effect of Inspiratory Muscle Training in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome.