In short: In obstructive sleep apnoea, the upper airway closes repeatedly during sleep and breathing stops or becomes shallow for 10 seconds or more at a time. It is a common condition that often goes undiagnosed. Appropriate treatment improves sleep quality and daytime alertness, and may also help control blood pressure.
Symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing noticed by a bed partner
- Daytime fatigue and sleepiness
- Unrefreshing sleep and morning headaches
- Frequent awakenings, including to use the bathroom
Why it matters
Untreated sleep apnoea is associated with high blood pressure, heart rhythm disorders (such as atrial fibrillation), diabetes and fatigue-related accidents. In people who also have lung disease, such as COPD, the combination further affects breathing and oxygen levels at night.
How it is diagnosed
With a sleep study, either at home or in a sleep laboratory. The study records breathing, oxygen levels and heart rate through the night and determines how severe the problem is. A home study is suitable for most patients; when there is significant heart or lung disease, or another sleep disorder is suspected, an in-lab study is preferred.
Treatment
CPAP is the mainstay of treatment at our clinic: a device that delivers air at gentle pressure through a mask and keeps the airway open. We tailor the treatment, follow up on use and help with difficulties adjusting to the device.
Treating excess weight is a central part of treatment and can improve sleep apnoea substantially. Alongside lifestyle change, medication is now available when indicated, for example tirzepatide (Mounjaro; Zepbound in the US), approved in the US for moderate to severe sleep apnoea with obesity.
When needed, we refer patients to an ENT specialist for evaluation of the nose and throat and for treatments such as an oral appliance, surgery or hypoglossal nerve stimulation for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP. Changing sleep position also helps some patients.
Frequently asked questions
I snore but I'm not tired. Should I be tested?
Not all snoring is sleep apnoea. If there are pauses in breathing, high blood pressure or heart disease, testing is worthwhile.
Related topics
General information only; it does not replace a medical consultation. עברית