Question 1

What is sleep apnoea?

Accepted Answer

Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder where a person's breathing repeatedly starts and stops during sleep. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, which blocks the airway. This results in fragmented sleep and symptoms like snoring, gasping/choking, daytime sleepiness, headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Sleep apnoea can lead to fatigue, cognitive impairment, and health risks like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Diagnosis involves a sleep study, and treatments include lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, oral appliances, or surgery.

Question 2

Can sleep apnoea be cured?

Accepted Answer

While sleep apnoea cannot be completely cured, it can be effectively managed and its symptoms significantly reduced. Treatment options aim to alleviate breathing difficulties during sleep and improve overall sleep quality. Here are some common approaches:

CPAP Therapy: Wearing a mask that delivers pressurised air to keep the airway open during sleep.
Oral Appliances: Devices that reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway blockage.
Lifestyle Changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule.
Surgery: Considered in severe cases when other treatments fail.

Consistent treatment adherence is important for effective management. Regular check-ups with healthcare professionals are recommended.

Question 3

What is the best treatment for sleep apnoea?

Accepted Answer

The best treatment for sleep apnoea depends on individual factors. Common options include CPAP therapy (using a mask to deliver pressurised air), oral appliances (repositioning the jaw or tongue), lifestyle changes, and surgery in severe cases. Consultation with a healthcare professional is important to determine the most suitable treatment.

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