Objective To compare the efficacy of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) with that of surgical treatment for obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS) in elderly patients. Methods Seventy patients with OSAHS were divided into a study group and a control group according to different treatment methods. The study group received CPAP, while the control group underwent surgical treatment. One month after treatment, apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), lowest oxygen saturation (LSaO2), ESS scale value, coagulation factors, and platelet count were measured in both groups. Results AHI and LSaO2 were lower and ESS scale value was higher in the study group than in the control group, but with no significant differences (P>0.05). After treatment, all the indexes of coagulation factors were increased in the control group, but only plasma clotting factorⅡactivity had a significant statistical difference (P<0.05); (FⅡ: C) and (FⅧ: C) were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (P<0.05); platelet count significantly increased in the control group (P<0.05), but markedly declined in the study group (P<0.05). Conclusions Both CPAP and surgical treatment have a better effiacy for obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea syndrome. CPAP can more effectively improve coagulation function and lower the risks of complications.