OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA AND HYPOPNEA SYNDROME: INFLUENCE ON QUALITY OF LIFE

Abstract

Introduction: Sleep is a natural physiological action in living beings, which implies a decrease in consciousness. Its stages can vary from individual to individual, but it is essential for maintaining health and neurological functions. However, during sleep, disorders can occur that impede or alter the fluidity of the stages, causing changes in sleep patterns. Sleep disorders are common in the general population and impact the lives of patients. Objective: To understand how obstructive sleep apnea and hypopnea syndrome influences quality of life. Justification: Chronic sleep deprivation due to respiratory disorders can lead to hormonal changes, such as increased stress hormone (cortisol) and decreased production of hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism (leptin and ghrelin). These hormonal changes can contribute to weight gain, obesity, and related metabolic disorders. Furthermore, most studies found in the literature address the quantitative aspects of quality of life. Methodology: This will be a field study, of an interpretative nature, with a qualitative approach, as it allows observation of the behavior of the research target audience in interaction with the field of study, in order to achieve the research objectives. Data collection will be carried out through an audio-recorded interview, guided by a semi-structured script, in person with patients diagnosed with sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome. The results will be analyzed using content analysis. Expected results: It is expected that it will be possible to identify the points that promote and hinder the quality of life of the patients, and thus propose an individualized and effective care plan.