Sleep Apnoea

Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder characterised by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, known as apnoeas, occur when the muscles at the back of the throat temporarily relax, causing a blockage of the upper airway. As a result, the affected individual experiences brief moments of disrupted breathing, often accompanied by loud snoring and disrupted sleep patterns. There are three main types of sleep apnoea:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): This is the most common form of sleep apnoea. It occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively, leading to a blockage of the airway. OSA can be caused or exacerbated by factors like obesity, excess weight around the neck, and certain medical conditions.
2. Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA): CSA is less common and differs from OSA in that it results from a failure of the brain to send the appropriate signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. Individuals with CSA may experience pauses in breathing without the typical airway blockage seen in OSA.
3. Complex or Mixed Sleep Apnoea: This is a combination of both OSA and CSA, and it's relatively rare. It involves a mix of obstructive and central sleep apnoea symptoms.

Untreated sleep apnoea can lead to various health problems, including daytime fatigue, high blood pressure, heart disease, and an increased risk of accidents due to impaired alertness. Effective treatment options include lifestyle changes, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, and, in some cases, surgery. It's crucial to seek medical evaluation and treatment if sleep apnoea is suspected, as managing the condition can significantly improve one's quality of life and overall health.