Sleep Apnea

Understanding Sleep Apnea in Australia: A Growing Concern

Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder that affects a significant number of people in Australia. Characterized by interruptions in breathing during sleep, this condition can lead to pauses that last several seconds. It disrupts the normal sleep cycle, affecting overall health and well-being.

What cause Sleep Apnea?

Several factors contribute to the development of sleep apnea.
According to the Australian Sleep Health Foundation, approximately 1 in 5 adults in Australia suffer from some form of sleep apnea. This equates to around 4 million Australians living with this condition.

Obesity

Excess weight can contribute to airway obstruction.

Smooking

Smoking increases inflammation and fluid retention in the airway.

Genetics

Alcohol relaxes the throat muscles, leading to airway collapse.

Alcohol Consumption

Family history can increase susceptibility to sleep apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is more common in men than women. A 2018 Australian study revealed that 25% of men and 13.3% of women either had diagnosed or potentially undiagnosed OSA.

A woman with obstructive sleep apnea may be less likely to be diagnosed than a man. She may not snore as loudly as a man. She may notice fatigue, insomnia, headaches or mood changes. Her doctor may treat these symptoms rather than recommend a home sleep test for sleep apnea.

Age is another significant factor in the likelihood of developing obstructive sleep apnea. Men are most commonly diagnosed with OSA after the age of 40. In contrast, women are more likely to be diagnosed after menopause or during pregnancy, when the risk increases due to hormonal changes.

Daytime Fatigue
Constant interruptions in sleep lead to excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue, affecting daily activities.
Headaches
Frequent morning headaches are a common symptom of sleep apnea.
Depression and Anxiety
Sleep disturbances can exacerbate mental health conditions.
Poor Concentration
Cognitive performance, memory, and attention may be impaired.
Increased Risk of Serious Health Problems
Severe sleep apnea is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

CPAP Therapy

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy is the most common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that delivers a constant flow of air, keeping the airway open during sleep.

Oral Appliances

Custom-fitted devices reposition the jaw to maintain an open airway, offering an alternative to CPAP for mild to moderate cases.

Surgical Options

Surgical interventions may be recommended to remove or reposition tissues that obstruct the airway.

Lifestyle Changes

Recommendations may include:● Weight loss, ● Exercise, quitting smoking● Reducing alcohol consumption.

Sleep apnea, if left untreated, can lead to serious health issues such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Is a progressive condition, meaning it can worsen over time if left untreated. Early diagnosis allows for timely intervention, reducing the risk of these potentially life-threatening conditions.
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, seeking medical advice is crucial to improving your quality of life.

At Revitalise Sleep Clinic, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea with a patient-focused approach. Our team of experienced specialists uses the latest technology to provide personalized care tailored to your needs.