Sleep apnoea and snoring

Sleep apnea and snoring are related sleep disorders that involve disruptions in the normal breathing pattern during sleep.Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These pauses can last for a few seconds to minutes and may occur many times throughout the night.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, OSA occurs when the muscles in the throat relax excessively, leading to a partial or complete blockage of the upper airway.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): In CSA, the brain fails to send signals to the muscles responsible for breathing.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this type involves a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Symptoms

Loud snoring.
Pauses in breathing witnessed by a bed partner.
Gasping or choking during sleep.
Excessive daytime sleepiness.
Difficulty concentrating.
Morning headaches.
Irritability.

Treatment

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A machine delivers a steady stream of air through a mask to keep the airway open.
Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP): Delivers different pressures for inhalation and exhalation.
Oral Appliances: Devices that reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open.
Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss, positional therapy, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives.

When Is Snoring a Concern?

While snoring is common and often harmless, it can be a symptom of an underlying sleep disorder, such as sleep apnea, especially if it is loud, disruptive, and accompanied by other symptoms like pauses in breathing.

Treatment:

Lifestyle Changes: Weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, and changing sleep position.
Nasal Strips: Adhesive strips that help to widen the nostrils and improve airflow.
Positional Therapy: Encouraging sleeping on one’s side.
Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Addressing nasal congestion or allergies.