FAQ's

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA)

During sleep, the throat and tongue muscles relax. These soft tissues can then fall to the back of the throat and block the airway, stopping the flow of oxygen to the body. This blockage causes sleep disturbance and puts immense stress on the body. People with sleep apnoea tend to wake feeling tired and can take naps easily during the day.

In Central Sleep Apnoea, the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control your breathing. This condition is different to obstructive sleep apnoea, which occurs due to upper airway obstruction. CSA is less common than obstructive sleep apnoea but can have similar consequences. If CSA is identified, you will need to be referred to a Sleep doctor.

The first and most common sign of sleep apnoea is usually observed by your partner -snoring. In addition to snoring, they might also tell you that you make gasping or choking sounds while you are asleep.

Other symptoms may include:
• Constant tiredness
• Morning headaches
• Depressed mood
• Poor concentration
• Forgetfulness
• Sexual dysfunction
• Frequent urination at night

Untreated OSA is linked to an increased incidence of: 
• Heart attack
• Stroke
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Workplace accidents and motor vehicle accidents
• Depression