Snoring & Sleep Apnoea

A good night's sleep is crucial for overall health, ensuring that the body's metabolic processes remain synchronised and effective. However, these days, sleep has become a luxury for many, leading to significant challenges when it is lacking. Snoring, often considered a mere nuisance, can also strain relationships and, in some cases, indicate a more serious condition like Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).

In individuals with OSA - also called obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome - the obstruction of the upper airway is more pronounced and can lead to complete or near-complete blockage periodically during sleep. Airway obstruction can occur in various locations in the nasopharynx, oropharynx or laryngopharynx with multiple sources of obstruction, also being possible. Snoring could be frequently accompanied by periods of interrupted breathing where breathing pauses and resumes abruptly with loud snorts. This disruptive pattern is brought on by the collapse of the throat resulting in poor sleep quality and leaving individuals feeling unrefreshed upon waking.

The same anatomical factors that contribute to snoring such as a narrow airway, enlarged tonsils, or a redundant soft palate, can also contribute to obstructive events in OSA. Beyond the immediate effects on sleep, OSA can lead to daytime fatigue and is associated with potential health risks such as high blood pressure and cardiovascular complications if untreated. This chronic sleep disruption not only impacts daily performance but also increases the risk of accidents and more severe health issues over time, emphasising the importance of identifying and managing sleep disorders effectively.