Beyond the Snore: Transforming Sleep Apnoea into Peaceful Nights

Sleep apnoea is a significant health concern affecting many individuals in Malaysia. Recent data suggests that approximately 8% of the adult population experiences some form of sleep apnoea, highlighting its status as a public health issue.

Sleep apnoea is characterised by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leading to poor sleep quality and various potential health complications. The condition can occur when the airway becomes obstructed (Obstructive Sleep Apnoea, or OSA) or when the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe (Central Sleep Apnoea, or CSA). 

The diagnosis of sleep apnoea typically involves several clinical assessments. A doctor may conduct a thorough medical history and physical examination, focusing on symptoms such as snoring, choking during sleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Sleep studies, or polysomnography, are commonly performed to monitor breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and other vital signs during sleep.

There are two main types of sleep apnoea:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA): The most prevalent form, OSA occurs when the throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway.

2. Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA): This type arises from the brain's failure to send proper signals to the muscles controlling breathing, often linked to underlying health issues such as heart failure.

Symptoms of sleep apnoea can vary by type but often include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, restless sleep, and excessive daytime fatigue. Common causes include obesity, anatomical abnormalities, and age. 

The complications of untreated sleep apnoea can be serious. OSA can lead to microsleep, road traffic accidents, cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and diabetes, while CSA can result in heart rhythm irregularities. 

Children can indeed have sleep apnoea, often presenting as behavioural issues, learning difficulties, or growth problems.

Treating sleep apnoea can range from non-surgical interventions like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy and lifestyle changes to surgical options. Although medications are typically not the primary treatment, some may be prescribed to manage associated conditions.

Overall, raising awareness and ensuring the proper management of sleep apnoea is crucial for improving health outcomes and enhancing the quality of life for affected individuals.

Dr. Tham Yik Seng

Consultant Otorhinolaryngologist

Gleneagles Hospital Kuala Lumpur

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