Sleep Apnoea Symptoms and 16 Other Things to Know

You could be dealing with sleep apnoea if you wake up at odd hours or are fatigues throughout the day. However, many people assume that poor sleep is a result of their hectic lifestyles. These people don’t realize that early diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea is extremely important.

Here are a few things to know about sleep apnoea from what causes it to the ways of dealing with the condition:

Sleep apnoea can be described as a condition in which breathing is repeatedly paused before restarting during sleep. Sleep apnoea can be categorized into three main types:

1)      Obstructive sleep apnoea occurs when muscles around the throat relax and obstruct the upper airways.

2)      Central sleep apnoea occurs when nerve signals to the muscles that control breathing are not transmitted in the right manner.

3)      Complex sleep apnoea syndrome is a combination of both central and obstructive sleep apnoea.

Obstructive sleep apnoea is a result of the relaxation of the muscles at the back of the throat which leads to the blocking of the airways. Due to the low blood oxygen levels, the brain signals the individual to wake up after sensing the distress. This explains why people with OSA will experience frequent awakening during sleep.

The Public Health Agency of Canada says that a quarter of Canadians are at risk of suffering from obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) which puts them at risk of many serious health conditions.

Obstructive sleep apnoea cases are increasing due to the rise in the rate of obesity. Abdominal obesity is a risk factor for OSA, however, you can be obese and not have sleep apnoea or you can have OSA without being obese. Other risk factors for OSA are genetics, nasal congestion, excess weight, enlarged tonsils and adenoids, smoking, large neck circumference, and use of alcohol.

Symptoms of OSA

·         Episodes interrupted breathing

·         Fatigue

·         Loud snoring

·         Irritability

·         Depression

·         Memory problems

·         Nocturia

·         Frequent awakening

·         Inattention and concentration problems

·         Waking up with a sore throat and dry mouth

·         Frequent illnesses

·         Morning headaches

·         Low productivity

·         Excessive daytime sleepiness

Sleep deprivation as a result of untreated OSA is related to effects such as impaired brain ability, stroke, a weak immune system, type 2 diabetes, depression, cardiovascular disease, and high blood pressure.

Diagnosis and treatment of OSA

If you take note of a combination of the above symptoms, it is important to pay a visit to your doctor or dentist. Some of the symptoms such as snoring and frequent awakenings can only be detected by your partner.

The diagnosis of OSA is carried out through a sleep study and follows a physical examination. The doctor will look out for physical signs such as overbite, worn out teeth, and enlarged tonsils before carrying out the sleep study.

Treatment of OSA is through the use of a CPAP machine, surgery, oral appliances, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, regular exercise and quitting smoking will help manage sleep apnoea. Exercising at least four times a week for approximately 12 weeks has been shown to improve OSA and improve overall sleep quality.

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http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2015/11/27/sleep-apnoea-symptoms_n_8666228.html

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