Exploring the Relationship between Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease and Asthma

Obstructive sleep apnea and chronic airway inflammatory diseases, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, are prevalent respiratory conditions, particularly among the elderly. These diseases significantly impact the health and quality of life of the general population. The coexistence of two or more of these conditions, known as overlap syndrome, exacerbates their impact and is frequently encountered in clinical practice. This article provides a comprehensive review of the progress in understanding overlap syndromes, focusing on their distinctive disease features, risk factors, pathophysiological mechanisms, symptoms, diagnostic approaches, and corresponding treatment strategies.