Waking up drowsy? It may be sleep apnea

We are all prone to operating on a sleep deficit, whether it is adults or children, juggling chores, jobs or exams and assignments. A lot of the time, we try to make up for it over weekends or by catching short naps. However, the risk here lies in not addressing an underlying problem, such as sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is characterised by experiencing gasping for breath or choking while sleeping, shortness of breath or loud snoring and waking up frequently. This can be accompanied by waking up tired, with a dry mouth or headache, experiencing irritability or excessive drowsiness during the day. Kids, who suffer from poor quality of sleep, may feel fatigued and cranky during the day, which may lead to other health issues. The good news is, paediatric obstructive sleep apnea can also be treated.

While sleep apnea is on the rise, among the elderly as well as younger professionals, it is usually dismissed as a routine sleep disturbance. If left untreated, it can act as the trigger to other lifestyle diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension and cardiac issues, including irregular heart rhythm. Obesity, particularly excessive weight around the neck, can also play a part in airway obstruction. Weight management and physical activity are critical in managing the condition.

“Individuals with a family history of sleep apnea, those with certain physical characteristics like a small jaw or large neck circumference, and individuals with nasal congestion should be vigilant, as they may be at a higher risk,” according to Dr Srivatsa Lokeshwaran, Lead Consultant and Head of Department – Interventional Pulmonology and Lung Transplant, Aster Whitefield Hospital, Bengaluru.

He remarks, “Beyond the physical consequences, untreated sleep apnea has a notable impact on mental health. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to mood disorders, cognitive impairment, and a diminished quality of life. Addressing sleep apnea not only mitigates physical health risks but also promotes mental well-being.”

The first step towards treating sleep apnea is increasing awareness around its symptoms. In medical terms, Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is characterised by a significant oxygen deprivation in the upper airway muscles, resulting in one gasping for breath while asleep. The sleep disorder, which can prove to be potentially serious, is usually evaluated through an overnight sleep test that monitors one’s breathing and other body functions at a sleep centre or at home.

Sleep studies, such as polysomnography, are essential in diagnosis and gauging the severity of the condition. According to Dr Lokeshwaran, “These studies provide detailed insights into an individual’s sleep patterns, oxygen levels, and the occurrence of apnea events. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is often considered the gold standard for treating moderate to severe sleep apnea. This non-invasive method involves wearing a mask that delivers a continuous stream of air, preventing airway collapse. Compliance with CPAP therapy significantly improves sleep quality and reduces associated health risks.” 

Each individual is unique and treatment calls for a multi-disciplinary approach, involving sleep specialists as well as pulmonologists, dentists and even fitness experts. Alternative treatments such as oral appliances, positional therapy, or lifestyle modifications may be considered based on the severity and individual characteristics of the condition, points out Dr Lokeshwaran.

He adds, “The benefits of addressing sleep apnea extend beyond immediate symptom relief. Long-term health improvements, including reduced risks of cardiovascular diseases, better blood pressure control, and enhanced metabolic health, underscore the lasting positive impact of timely intervention and comprehensive management.”

It’s important to remember that sleep issues should not be ignored as a simple matter and get the care it deserves, before it leads to serious lifestyle problems.