Overlap syndrome: Obstructive sleep apnea and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) both cause an inflammatory response and hypoxia. Patients who have both conditions (overlap syndrome) have increased morbidity and mortality. This article aims to increase awareness of the potential effects that untreated OSA can have on COPD and the importance of treating patients with overlap syndrome.