On this page, you will find everything you need to know about Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
It is the cessation of breathing during sleep, commonly referred to as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), which occurs when the throat (airway) is partially or completely closed.
What are the symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea often occurs spontaneously, without noticeable signs and symptoms in other parts of the body. However, it can also occur as part of a syndrome, such as mucopolysaccharidosis type I or polycystic ovary syndrome. Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea include:
Breathing cessation.
Making sounds like gasping, snoring, or choking.
Frequent waking.
Loud snoring.
Extreme fatigue.
Difficulty concentrating.
Mood swings.
Morning headaches.
Depression.
Sexual dysfunction.
What are the causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Being overweight, as obesity may exacerbate airway obstruction during sleep.
Aging, although children and young people can also suffer from it.
Genetic factors (family members with sleep apnoea).
Smoking and alcohol consumption.
Having large tonsils or adenoids.
Sleeping on one's back, which can lead to upper airway obstruction during sleep.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea can be dangerous if not diagnosed and treated.
What are the diagnostic methods?
The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a clinical examination. Additional procedures may be requested as needed, such as:
Your doctor may give you a monitoring device to wear while sleeping that measures oxygen levels and heart rate to help diagnose sleep apnoea.
Examination of the throat, neck, and mouth. You may also need to answer questions about your sleep routine and bedtime, as well as symptoms.
A polysomnography test, which must be conducted in a health facility and requires hospitalization.
What are the treatments for Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Treatment is done through various procedures or as required and may include:
Conservative (non-medical) treatments, such as weight loss, changing sleeping positions, and nasal sprays.
Many people may need to use a device called a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. This device:
Improves breathing during sleep by keeping the airway open.
Enhances sleep quality.
Reduces the risks associated with sleep apnoea (such as high blood pressure).
A device that keeps the airway open during sleep (mandibular advancement device).
In case surgery is needed to aid breathing, procedures such as tonsillectomy and adenoidectomy may be performed.
Medications (used only for central sleep apnoea).
How to prevent Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Try to lose weight if there is obesity present.
Manage any current health conditions such as high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes.
Quit smoking. For more details, see the smoking cessation guide.
Avoid alcohol consumption.
Do not take sleeping pills unless recommended by a doctor, as they can worsen sleep apnoea.
What are the complications of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
Neglecting the treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea can lead to:
High blood pressure.
An increased likelihood of a stroke.
Depression or mood changes.
Risk of serious accidents resulting from fatigue, such as car accidents.
Difficulty concentrating.
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea may be associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance, the reduced ability to regulate blood sugar effectively.
Irregular heartbeats.
When should you consult a doctor?
You should visit the emergency room if you notice any symptoms of a heart attack or stroke, as both are likely to occur with sleep apnoea. If you experience noises like gasping, snoring, or feeling suffocated while sleeping.
If you feel extremely tired during the day.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Does everyone who snores have Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?
No, not everyone who snores has Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.
