Sleep Apnea
SLEEP APNEA IS A COMMON SLEEP DISORDER THAT'S TREATABLE
Sleep apnea (also spelt sleep apnoea) is a common sleep disorder in which you have one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while you sleep. Breathing pauses can last from a few seconds to a few minutes. They may occur 30 times or more an hour. Typically, when normal breathing resumes, this can sometimes begin with a loud snort or choking sound.
Airway Open
Airway Narrows
Airway Closes
SLEEP APNEA SYMPTOMS
Common Male Sleep Apnea Symptoms:
- Fatigue / excessive daytime sleepiness
- Heavy snoring
- Poor concentration
- Poor memory
- Low Energy
- Waking up unrefreshed
- Gasping / interrupted breathing while asleep
Common Female Sleep Apnea Symptoms:
- Fatigue / excessive daytime sleepiness
- Heavy snoring
- Insomnia
- Restless legs
- Morning headaches
- Muscle pain
- Depressed mood
HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE SLEEP APNEA?
Doctors are unable to diagnose sleep apnea during a routine visit, nor can any blood test help. To test for this we offer a Medicare rebated sleep apnea test, which can be done at home.
Some of the signs of having sleep apnea are a good indication, as follows:
- Has anyone said that you snore?
- Has your partner witnessed you gasp or stop breathing during sleep?
- Do you sometimes wake up unrefreshed in the morning?
- Do you sometimes wake up with a headache in the morning?
- Do you sometimes struggle to stay awake at the end of the day?
- Have your energy and motivation levels decreased?
- Do you find it difficult to concentrate?
If you have answered ‘Yes’ to two or more of these, then you are at a higher risk of having sleep apnea and should seek further medical advice.