Sleep apnoea is a health condition that involves the blockage of the airway during sleep. The blockage reduces the inflow of oxygen, resulting in breath shortness and snoring.
Causes of sleep apnoea
Sleep apnoea is caused by several factors, including:
•Underlying medical conditions that cause nasal blockage.
•Being overweight.
•Smoking.
•Ageing and menopause.
Major signs and symptoms of sleep apnoea
It’s difficult to self-diagnose sleep apnoea, especially if you sleep alone. However, be on the lookout for these symptoms.
•Consistent loud snoring.
•Breathing interruptions.
•Frequent nighttime awakenings.
•Gasping or snorting during sleep.
•Waking up exhausted.
Treating sleep apnoea
•Losing excess weight and avoiding smoking.
•Avoid sleeping on your back. Instead, sleep on your side.
•Many dentists provide oral devices that are effective in correcting sleep apnoea.
•Using Continuous Positive Airflow Pressure (CPAP) devices.
•Surgery
What happens if I don’t get treatment?
Sleep deprivation causes adverse effects on your physical and emotional health. From depression to health conditions such as heart disease and stroke.
Do you have sleep apnoea? An in-home Sleep Test provides a quick, convenient and affordable way to have sleep apnoea confirmed. All studies are independently analysed by experienced NHS-qualified sleep professionals, and use the WatchPAT recording device for unrivalled accuracy.
Learn more about sleep apnoea: https://www.sleeptest.co.uk