Sleep is essential to physical health, mental wellbeing, and daily functioning. When sleep is disrupted night after night, the effects can be far-reaching. Sleep apnoea is one of the most common — and most underdiagnosed — sleep disorders, affecting people of all ages and backgrounds.
Understanding what sleep apnoea is, how it is diagnosed, and why treatment matters can help individuals recognise symptoms early and seek appropriate care.
What is sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses in breathing can occur dozens or even hundreds of times each night, often without the person being aware.
Each pause briefly reduces oxygen levels and forces the brain to partially wake the body to resume breathing. This cycle fragments sleep, preventing restorative rest.
Types of sleep apnoea
There are three main types of sleep apnoea:
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA)
The most common form, caused by collapse or obstruction of the upper airway during sleep.
Central sleep apnoea
Occurs when the brain fails to send consistent signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Complex sleep apnoea
A combination of obstructive and central features.
Respiratory and sleep specialists assess which type is present to guide appropriate treatment.
Common signs and symptoms
Sleep apnoea often goes undiagnosed because symptoms occur during sleep. Common signs include:
- Loud, habitual snoring
- Pauses in breathing witnessed by a partner
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Restless or unrefreshing sleep
Daytime symptoms may include:
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability or low mood
- Reduced work performance
Why sleep apnoea should not be ignored
Untreated sleep apnoea is associated with significant health risks. Repeated oxygen drops and sleep disruption place stress on the cardiovascular system and other organs.
Sleep apnoea is linked to:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease and heart rhythm disturbances
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Increased risk of motor vehicle and workplace accidents
Treating sleep apnoea can significantly reduce these risks and improve quality of life.
Who is at risk?
Sleep apnoea can affect anyone, but risk is increased in people who:
- Are overweight
- Have a family history of sleep apnoea
- Have nasal or airway obstruction
- Have certain jaw or facial structures
- Consume alcohol or sedatives at night
Importantly, sleep apnoea also occurs in people who are not overweight.
How sleep apnoea is diagnosed
Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, which measures breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and sleep stages.
Sleep studies may be conducted:
- At home using portable equipment
- In a sleep laboratory
Your specialist will determine the most appropriate option based on your symptoms and medical history.
Treatment options for sleep apnoea
Treatment depends on the type and severity of sleep apnoea, as well as individual preferences and health factors.
Options may include:
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
- Oral appliances fitted by trained dentists
- Weight management strategies
- Positional therapy
- Treatment of nasal or ENT conditions
Your specialist will discuss benefits, challenges, and expectations for each option.
Life with treated sleep apnoea
Many patients notice improvements soon after treatment begins. Benefits often include:
- Better sleep quality
- Improved energy levels
- Enhanced concentration and mood
- Reduced cardiovascular risk
Adapting to treatment can take time, and ongoing support is important.
The role of specialist care
Sleep apnoea management often involves collaboration between respiratory specialists, sleep scientists, GPs, and sometimes ENT specialists or dentists.
At SAMS, sleep disorders are assessed within the broader context of respiratory and cardiovascular health, ensuring comprehensive and coordinated care.
When to speak with your doctor
If you or someone close to you notices symptoms of sleep apnoea, discussing these with your GP is an important first step. Early assessment can prevent long-term complications and improve daily wellbeing.
Better sleep, better health
Sleep apnoea is a treatable condition. With accurate diagnosis and appropriate management, many people experience significant improvements in sleep, health, and quality of life.
Seeking specialist care can provide clarity, reassurance, and a pathway toward better rest and long-term wellbeing.