How can sleep apnoea be diagnosed and managed?

Sleep apnoea is a common yet often undiagnosed sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact quality of life and overall health if left untreated.

There are three main types of sleep apnoea: obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), the most common form, occurs when throat muscles relax and block the airway; central sleep apnoea (CSA), which happens when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing; and complex sleep apnoea syndrome, a combination of both OSA and CSA.

One of the key symptoms of sleep apnoea is loud snoring, often accompanied by gasping, choking, or pauses in breathing during sleep. Many individuals are unaware they have the condition until a partner notices the signs. Other symptoms include daytime fatigue, morning headaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

Untreated sleep apnoea can lead to serious health complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and depression. It can also increase the risk of accidents due to daytime drowsiness.

Diagnosis typically involves an overnight sleep study called polysomnography, which monitors breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and brain activity during sleep. Home sleep tests are also available for some patients.

Treatment options vary depending on the severity and type of apnoea. The most common treatment for OSA is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, which keeps airways open by delivering steady air pressure through a mask. Other treatments include lifestyle changes (such as weight loss, avoiding alcohol, or sleeping on one’s side), oral appliances, and in some cases, surgery.

Sleep apnoea is a manageable condition, but awareness is key. If you or someone you know experiences symptoms, seeking medical advice is the first step toward safer, healthier sleep.