Obstructive Sleep Apnea : When Snoring Becomes Dangerous

This is a short write-up of Dr Soon Sue Rene‘s article published on Farrer Park Hospital’s website.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a severe sleep disorder where you stop breathing while sleeping. In Singapore, it is estimated that about 30.5 per cent of the population has mild to severe sleep disorders, which means that one in three patients would have OSA now.

Influences of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

The effects of OSA can be felt keenly if left untreated for both adults and children. Quality of life is impaired with reduced energy levels and degraded daytime performance. OSA is coupled to numerous systemic conditions, including an increased risk of heart disease, hypertension, cardiac arrhythmias, stroke and metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity. OSA in children can influence learning, growth and lead to behavioural problems.

Ways to Manage Obstructive Sleep Apnea

In general, lifestyle modifications and weight management are advised for all patients. Positional therapy to condition patients sleep laterally on the side, either left or right, usually improves snoring, airway obstruction and sleep. Myofunctional therapy involves exercises to strengthen the tongue and throat muscles. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy can potentially cure OSA by air at pressure is delivered from a mask and works like a mechanical splint, opening up the upper airway and normalizing oxygenation.

Surgical Options for Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Surgery is considered if patients are intolerant and unsuitable for the CPAP device, be it for primary use or in conjunction with CPAP. Multiple medical procedures and surgery options are available for different patients’ symptoms and conditions. 

You may not be aware of OSA unless someone else tells you. Therefore, obstructive sleep apnea is commonly underdiagnosed. Schedule an appointment to learn more from Dr Soon and resolve it today.