What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses can last from seconds to minutes and may occur hundreds of times a night, leading to poor sleep quality and health risks. Andrew Holmes from Sleep Efficiency in Ottawa explains that the condition often goes undiagnosed because many people are unaware of their nighttime breathing patterns.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
Common symptoms include loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Holmes notes that partners often notice the breathing pauses first. "If you're told you stop breathing at night, or you wake up gasping, it's time to get checked," he says. Other signs include irritability, mood swings, and waking with a dry mouth or sore throat.
Risk Factors and Health Impacts
Risk factors include obesity, large neck circumference, family history, smoking, and alcohol use. Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and accidents due to daytime drowsiness. According to Holmes, "Sleep apnea is linked to serious cardiovascular issues, so it's not just about feeling tired."
Treatment Options Available
Treatment ranges from lifestyle changes to medical devices. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common therapy, delivering air through a mask to keep airways open. Oral appliances that reposition the jaw can also help. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. Holmes emphasizes that weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bed, and sleeping on one's side can reduce symptoms. "CPAP is very effective, but compliance is key," he adds.
When to See a Doctor
Anyone experiencing symptoms should consult a primary care physician, who may refer them to a sleep specialist for a sleep study. Home sleep tests are also available. "Early diagnosis can dramatically improve quality of life," Holmes says. The Ottawa area offers several sleep clinics for assessment and treatment.
