Sleep apnoea, also referred to as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), is a common sleep disorder charecterised by repetitive and consistent interruptions of breathing during sleep. These disruptions occur when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, leading to partial or complete blockage of the airway. This restriction of oxygen leads to chronic health issues if not treated by a sleep specialist.
There are two primary types of sleep apnoea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This condition occurs when the upper airway becomes restricted from a collapsed airway, hindering airflow during sleep. This causes a reduction in oxygen to the brain which stops you from entering deep sleep. Factors such as obesity, enlarged tonsils, or hormonal changes can contribute to the development of OSA.
Central Sleep Apnea: Central sleep apnoea happens from disruptions in the brain's control over breathing. Medical conditions affecting the brain's homeostatic regulation of airway and chest muscles can lead to central sleep apnoea.
Common symptoms of sleep apnoea include:
The severity of sleep apnoea is determined by the frequency of breathing interruptions during sleep, ranging from mild to severe.
To diagnose sleep apnoea you will have to undergo a sleep study. Sleep Life Australia conducts sleep apnea testing from the comfort of your own home in Perth and rurally in Western Australia. A sleep study involves a night of monitoring your sleep via scientific technology that records key vital signs that can diagnose obstructive sleep apnea. Once the sleep study has taken place a sleep physician will review your results to diagnose or rule out sleep apnea.
Treatment for sleep apnoea may include:
Continuous Positive Air Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: CPAP devices are commonly used to keep the airway open during sleep.
Lifestyle Modifications: Weight loss, positional therapy, avoiding stimulants and alcohol before bedtime may help to alleviate symptoms.
Surgical Interventions: In some cases, surgical intervention may be recommended to address anatomical issues contributing to sleep apnoea.
Untreated sleep apnoea can lead to debilitating health complications, including high blood pressure, heart issues, poor energy and cognitive impairment. Therefore, if you think you may have sleep apnea it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider or visit a sleep clinic such as Sleep Life Australia in Perth for proper evaluation and management.