Sleep apnoea: Watch out for ‘apnoea events’ while sleeping - how to spot it

Samir SharmaDec 09, 2020Health

Sleep apnoea is an umbrella term for breathing interruptions during sleep, the most common being obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). According to the NHS, OSA is a relatively common condition where the walls of the throat relax and narrow during sleep, interrupting normal breathing. “This may lead to regularly interrupted sleep, which can have a big impact on quality of life and increases the risk of developing certain conditions,” warns the health body.

To circumvent this problem, the NHS recommends asking someone to stay with you while you sleep so they can check for the symptoms.

How to treat it

Obstructive sleep apnoea does not always need to be treated if it’s mild but there are a range of treatments available if necessary.

You can help to manage the symptoms of OSA yourself by making some changes to the way you live.

According to the British Lung Foundation (BLF), reducing the amount of alcohol you drink, maintaining a healthy weight and having good bedtime habits can make a big difference.

You’re likely to need another treatment as well as making lifestyle changes.

According to the BLF, mandibular advancement devices (MADs) machines – devices you wear in your mouth as you sleep – are common.

“They bring your lower jaw forward to help keep your upper airway open,” it explains.

If therapies prove futile and your condition does not improve, surgery is usually considered, according to the Mayo Clinic.

One common surgical procedure is uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) – a procedure in which your doctor removes tissue from the back of your mouth and top of your throat, explains the health body.

“Your tonsils and adenoids may be removed as well. UPPP usually is performed in a hospital and requires a general anaesthetic,” it explains.

Other surgical procedures include: