Overview
Obstructive sleep apnoea disrupts sleep and lowers oxygen levels. If untreated, it increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and road accidents. It is very treatable.
Symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing, gasping or choking during sleep, often noticed by a partner
- Daytime sleepiness and tiredness
- Morning headaches
- Poor concentration and irritability
- Waking often to pass urine
Causes and risk factors
Risk factors include obesity, a large neck, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, a small jaw, nasal blockage, alcohol, sedatives, smoking and older age.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is made with a sleep study, which can sometimes be done at home.
Treatment
Treatment includes weight loss, avoiding alcohol at night, sleeping on the side, CPAP therapy, mouth devices and surgery for selected people.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if you snore loudly and feel sleepy during the day, or if someone has noticed you stop breathing during sleep.
This information is for general education and does not replace advice from a qualified doctor. For a medical emergency, call +92-51-8446666 or go to the nearest emergency department.
