Snoring occurs when the airways at the back of the throat close. Air passing through the partially closed airway causes vibrations to occur. While snoring itself is not always a serious issue, it can be a symptom of underlying sleep disorders like obstructive sleep apnoea.

Sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder characterised by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. It happens when the muscles in the throat fail to keep the airway open, leading to repeated disruptions in breathing.

Sleep apnoea can result in fragmented sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and various health complications if left untreated.

Symptoms

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) can lead to many symptoms including feeling tired.

Often this is because Apnoea’s affect our ability to get into deep stages of sleep, where our bodies recover from the day.

Signs & symptoms linked to OSA are:

· Snoring

· Excessive daytime sleepiness

· Morning headaches

· Difficulty concentrating

· Irritability and mood changes

· Gasping during sleep

What’s the risk of untreated OSA?

Untreated OSA can have serious implications for your health as well as how you feel each day. It is associated with an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms (atrial fibrillation), coronary artery disease, and stroke.

The good news is that identifying and addressing sleep apnoea has never been easier. Taking the first step of booking a sleep study is crucial for overall well-being and with many treatment options available, ensures that you begin the journey to better sleep!

Book a Sleep Study now to kick start your journey to better sleep!

Did you know that OSA affects up to 20% of the adult population,

and approximately 80% of those struggling with OSA are Undiagnosed..

At Arise, our team consists of Australian based GP’s, sleep and respiratory physicians and health care professionals to conduct thorough exams and home-based sleep tests that monitor your breathing, blood oxygen levels, and heart rate. A certified sleep physician interprets results, providing tailored treatment recommendations.

Our Sleep studies can be completed in the comfort of your own home. Find out more on the booking page of the website.

Why address OSA?

Whether you're a healthcare professional seeking in-depth information, or someone interested in optimising their well-being, addressing OSA is crucial. By recognizing the signs, causes, and potential consequences of OSA, you can begin to take proactive steps to manage its impact on your health.

Remember, taking care of your sleep health is an essential part of your overall wellness journey. If you suspect you or someone you know may be experiencing OSA, seeking guidance from healthcare experts can make a significant difference in improving quality of life.

What treatment options are available?

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP)

CPAP (Continuous Positive Airways Pressure) is often hailed as the most effective therapy for managing OSA. CPAP involves using a specialised CPAP device while asleep, connected to a mask covering the nose or face through a heated tube. This apparatus gently amplifies air pressure within the throat, maintaining its patency and effectively addresses concerns related to snoring and OSA.

Oral appliance (dental splint)

Oral Appliances – Custom-made dental splints that are tailored for nighttime wear, play a pivotal role in treating OSA. By gently advancing the lower jaw, they promote the expansion of the throat, thereby mitigating the tendency for the airway to close.

It is advisable to engage with a sleep specialist and dental practitioner to check whether this option might be suitable for you.

Surgery

Surgical intervention can prove to be effective for instances of OSA stemming from distinct blockages localised within the nasal or throat passages. A spectrum of surgical approaches is available, dependent on the precise anatomical site of concern. In-depth evaluation by an a surgeon is necessary to discern whether this might be an appropriate option.