Snoring may not be a laughing matter
Understanding Sleep Health, Beyond the Noise
How is sleep apnoea detected?
Sleep apnoea can be diagnosed simply if there are episodes of gasping or choking during sleep. This is typically seen in the setting of variably loud snoring. If a partner has noticed this, then sleep apnoea is present.
The role of further evaluation and treatment is to work out why someone has sleep apnoea, what effect it is having on their health, and what treatments are best suited to them. These are questions that are addressed by seeing a sleep physician and having a sleep study.
How is sleep apnoea treated?
In treating sleep apnoea, it is important to focus on the goal of treatment, as the aim of treatment will determine choice of treatment. For those with severe sleep apnoea, the aim of treatment is to improve sleepiness during the day and also to reduce the negative effects of sleep apnoea on blood pressure, heart function and diabetes. Whereas for those with mild sleep apnoea, the aim of treatment may be to reduce the noise of snoring that is disturbing the bed partner. Therefore, it is important to know the severity of sleep apnoea and its effects on health to develop and appropriate treatment plan for each individual.
Treatments that are used for sleep apnoea include:
General measures
CPAP Therapy
Dental Appliances
Provent
Surgery
The Future
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