What is Sleep Apnoea?

About 40% of people who snore have a disorder known as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in which the soft tissues in the throat, including the tongue, collapse and are sucked against the back of the throat. This blocks the upper airway and air flow stops.

When the oxygen level in the brain becomes low enough, the sleeper partially awakens, the obstruction in the throat clears and the flow of air starts again, usually with a loud gasp.

This cycle of apnoea - obstruction and breathing can occur many times per hour during sleep.

People with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) have disrupted sleep, and low blood oxygen levels. Sleep apnoea has been associated with cardiovascular problems and excessive daytime sleepiness.

The condition known as upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) lies midway between benign snoring and true obstructive sleep apnoea. People with UARS suffer many of the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnoea but normal sleep testing will be negative.

The good news is that sleep apnoea and upper airway resistance syndrome can be treated easily and effectively with either a dental sleep appliance or a CPAP machine. Contact Dental Sleep Group today for an appointment to access the best treatment for you.

Risk Factors of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Older, obese men seem to be at higher risk, though as many as 40% of people with obstructive sleep apnoea are not obese. Nasal obstruction, a large tongue, a narrow airway and certain shapes of the palate and jaw also increases the risk of sleep apnoea. A large neck or collar size is strongly associated with obstructive sleep apnoea. Ingestion of alcohol or sedatives before sleep may predispose to episodes of apnoea.

The classic picture of obstructive sleep apnoea includes episodes of heavy snoring that begin soon after falling asleep. The snoring proceeds at a regular pace for a period of time, often becoming louder, but is then interrupted by a long silent period during which no breathing is taking place (apnoea). The apnoea is then interrupted by a loud snort and 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 (hypoxia) may cause many of the daytime symptoms. If the condition is severe enough, pulmonary hypertension may develop leading to right-sided heart failure or cor pulmonale.

Fortunately the problems relating to sleep apnoea can be reversed quickly and effectively with proper treatment. Don’t wait to fall asleep at the wheel before seeking treatment. Contact Dental Sleep Group now for an assessment.

Sleep Apnoea Symptoms

It is important to emphasize that often, the person who has obstructive sleep apnoea does not remember the episodes of apnoea during the night. The predominant symptoms are usually associated with excessive daytime sleepiness due to poor sleep during the night. Often, family members, especially spouses, witness the periods of apnoea.

Symptoms that may be observed can include any of the following:

If your partner shows any of the above symptoms you should encourage them to have a full assessment. Proper treatment will provide a significant improvement in your partner's health and wellbeing and will no doubt improve your night’s sleep too.

 

Don’t wait for these complications to occur before seeking help. Treatment from Dental Sleep Group can alleviate the onset of serious health problems and their associated costs. Contact Dental Sleep Group to make an appointment.