Sleep Apnoea

 

Over a third of people who snore have a medical disorder known as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in which the soft tissues in the throat - including the tongue - collapse against the back of the throat resulting in a blockage in the upper airway. This prevents the flow of air into the lungs.

When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the person is partially aroused from sleep and the blockage in the throat is cleared - often with a loud gasp. The flow of air then starts again.


This cycle of apnoeic episodes can occur many times per hour during sleep. The more often the episodes occur and the longer each airway blockage lasts, the more severe the condition is.

 

Importantly, people with sleep apnoea have disrupted sleep and low blood oxygen levels. Sleep apnoea has therefore been associated with a host of health problems and excessive daytime sleepiness.

 

diagram sleep apnoea

What is the classic picture of obstructive sleep apnoea?

The classic picture of obstructive sleep apnoea includes episodes of heavy snoring that commence soon after falling asleep. The snoring then continues at a regular pace for a period, often becoming louder, but is then interrupted by a long silent pause during which no breathing occurs. This is called an apnoea. The apnoea is then interrupted by a loud snort and/or gasp and the snoring returns to its regular pace. This behaviour recurs frequently throughout the night.

During the apnoeas, the oxygen level in the blood falls. Persistent low levels of oxygen are associated with many of the daytime symptoms of sleep apnoea. If the condition is severe enough, pulmonary hypertension may develop leading to right-sided heart failure.  

 

Can sleep apnoea be treated?


The good news is that sleep apnoea can be treated easily and effectively with either a dental sleep appliance or positive airway pressure therapy.

 

If you think that you (or your partner) may be suffering from sleep apnoea, contact Adelaide Sleep Clinic today on 13-000-SLEEP (13-000-75337) for an appointment to assess the most appropriate treatment for your circumstances.

 

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Adelaide Sleep Clinic

Helping people with snoring and sleep apnoea

 

301 Payneham Road Royston Park 5070

ADELAIDE, SOUTH AUSTRALIA

 

Phone 13-000-SLEEP (13-000-75337) for an appointment

 
 
 
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