Talking Sleep

Understanding Residual AHI: What Sleep Doctors Need to Know

In this episode, host Dr. Seema Khosla examines a crucial clinical question: how reliable is the residual AHI measured by PAP devices? Experts Dr. Robert Thomas, Dr. Tavi Ioachimescu,  and Dr. Imran Iftikhar analyze the accuracy of PAP downloads, brand differences in measurement, and implications for patient care. Through meta-analysis findings and clinical research, they explore stable versus unstable breathing patterns and how this data influences treatment decisions.

The discussion covers device-specific algorithms, historical development of AHI measurement, and the role of patient monitoring software like OSCAR and SleepHQ. Learn about therapeutic approaches for unstable breathing, including medication options and practical management strategies for complex sleep apnea cases.

Sleep’s Role in PTSD

In this episode, host Dr. Seema Khosla welcomes Dr. Maya Schenker, a postdoctoral researcher from the University of Melbourne, who has dedicated her research to understanding the complex relationship between sleep and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). With a focus on the bidirectional mechanisms linking sleep and trauma, Dr. Schenker explores how sleep can be a critical intervention point for managing and potentially preventing PTSD.

Discover the latest insights into how sleep impacts trauma response, including the role of REM sleep, fear conditioning, and the neurological processes that contribute to PTSD development. The conversation delves into why women are more susceptible to PTSD, the potential of sleep interventions, and breakthrough research on preventing trauma-related sleep disorders. Whether you're a healthcare professional or interested in understanding the intricate connections between sleep and mental health, this episode offers valuable perspectives on trauma, sleep, and healing.

A Guide to OSA Endotyping

In this episode, host Dr. Seema Khosla welcomes Dr. Danny J. Eckert, a sleep and respiratory physiologist and professor at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia. Dr. Eckert is a leading expert in his field and the recipient of the 2023 European Respiratory Society Gold Medal in Sleep-Disordered Breathing. As the Director of the Adelaide Institute for Sleep Health, he discusses his groundbreaking work on OSA endotyping and the PALM classification system (Pcrit, Arousal threshold, Loop gain, and Muscle recovery).

Discover why 70% of OSA patients have non-anatomical causes and how understanding these distinct endotypes can revolutionize treatment approaches. The conversation delves into practical applications for clinical settings, examining the roles of obesity and nasal obstruction in sleep apnea while discussing targeted therapeutic strategies, including GABAergic medications.

RLS Clinical Practice Guideline Update

In this episode of Talking Sleep, Drs. John Winkelman and Andy Berkowski discuss the updated AASM clinical practice guideline for the treatment of restless legs syndrome and periodic limb movement disorder.