A nurse is educating a group of clients about sleep-related breathing disorders. Which of the following symptoms is often associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?

Choice A rationale:

Allergies are not typically considered medical disorders that directly contribute to sleep and wakefulness disorders. Allergic reactions can lead to discomfort and difficulty breathing, but they are not primary contributors to sleep disturbances.

Choice B rationale:

Degenerative neurologic illnesses, such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's disease, can disrupt sleep patterns. These conditions may lead to changes in sleep architecture, insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, and other sleep-related issues.

Choice C rationale:

Infections can cause temporary disruptions in sleep due to symptoms like fever, discomfort, and respiratory issues. However, infections are not among the primary medical disorders known for contributing to chronic sleep and wakefulness disorders.

Choice D rationale:

Mood disorders like depression and anxiety can significantly impact sleep and wakefulness. Depression may lead to insomnia or oversleeping, while anxiety can cause difficulty falling asleep and maintaining sleep. Both conditions can affect sleep quality and duration.

Choice E rationale:

Caffeine consumption is a lifestyle factor, not a medical disorder. While caffeine intake, especially close to bedtime, can interfere with sleep, it is not classified as a medical disorder contributing to sleep and wakefulness disorders.

Choice A rationale:

Increased appetite is not a common symptom associated with sleep and wakefulness disorders. While sleep disturbances can affect appetite regulation, leading to weight gain or loss, increased appetite itself is not a direct symptom of these disorders.

Choice B rationale:

Excessive daytime sleepiness is a hallmark symptom of sleep and wakefulness disorders such as narcolepsy, sleep apnea, and insufficient sleep syndrome. It is characterized by an overwhelming urge to sleep during the daytime, often resulting in unintentional napping or falling asleep in inappropriate situations.

Choice C rationale:

Heightened sense of smell is not typically associated with sleep and wakefulness disorders. This sensory alteration is not directly linked to sleep disruptions or disorders. It is important to focus on symptoms that are more directly related to sleep patterns.

Choice D rationale:

Snoring during sleep is a common symptom of sleep-disordered breathing, particularly obstructive sleep apnea. Snoring can be caused by the partial obstruction of the upper airway during sleep, leading to noisy and disrupted breathing patterns. It is important to assess snoring as it can indicate underlying sleep-related breathing issues.

Choice E rationale:

Enhanced physical strength is not a common symptom of sleep and wakefulness disorders. Sleep disturbances are more likely to result in fatigue and decreased physical performance due to disrupted sleep patterns, rather than enhanced strength.