Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a syndrome of excessive daytime sleepiness and irregular breathing during the night. It is conservatively estimated that about 2% of middle-aged males and 1% of middle-aged females suffer with this condition but the true figure may be much higher. Predisposing factors include increasing age, male gender, obesity, sedative drugs and smoking/alcohol consumption.

The consequences of untreated sleep apnoea on daily life include increased sleepiness, poor concentration, morning headaches, mood or personality changes, reduction in quality of life, unrefreshing sleep, choking attacks at night, decreased libido and impaired relationships with others especially spouses and partners. The reduced alertness can be dangerous and result in an increased risk of accidents on the roads or at work. Sufferers from OSA may also be more likely to develop high blood pressure, heart attacks and stroke.

At Snore-Tech, patients are assessed by a description of their symptoms and by completing a questionnaire known as the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. They have a physical examination and then undergo an overnight diagnostic sleep study in their own home which measures snoring, breathing patterns, oxygen levels and pulse rate. This information will enable the doctor to make a diagnosis of sleep apnoea.