There are several sleep disorders, the most common one being insomnia. However, sleep apnea is quite a serious sleep problem as it interrupts the breathing pattern repeatedly.
If you snore abnormally loud and you usually find yourself gasping for breath during the night, you might be suffering from sleep apnea. You must visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Once they medically verify that you are experiencing sleep apnea, you might have to buy CPAP machine in Australia to revive your normal sleeping pattern. Yet again, your doctor will be stating the details of the treatment and the machine usage to you.
But if you suspect that you might have this sleep disorder, keep reading as we have culled up some of its basics for your better understanding.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
Noticing the symptoms does take some time. Many people do not even notice it until the situation worsens. If you have a partner, they might notice the symptoms quicker than you do.
Here are some of the most common symptoms that sleep apnea patients experience:
- Excessively loud snoring
- Feeling fatigued and sleepy all around the day
- Waking up multiple times during the night
- Restlessness during sleep
- Sore throat in the morning (or a dry mouth)
- Anxiety
- Excessive depression (without a root cause)
- Sexual dysfunctions
- Frequent throbbing headaches
- Night sweats
- The urge to pee during the night increases
- Lack of concentration
It is very rare for children to have sleep apnea. It is usually discovered in adults, especially men.
Treatments for Sleep Apnea:
The treatment of sleep apnea depends upon the severity of your condition. If your case isn’t that serious, your doctor might suggest some minor lifestyle changes only. You might have to quit smoking (if you are a smoker) or lose weight. Some people are also suggesting some nasal allergy treatments.
However, if your situation is severe, your doctor might use a CPAP machine for the treatment. This helps regulate proper air pressure to you, while you sleep. It comes with a nasal mask and ensures that your airway doesn’t get blocked. It further stops excessive snoring as well. For some people, the mask isn’t much of a comfortable option. If you feel uneasy and can’t fall asleep due to the mask; discuss it with your doctor.
If the CPAP machine isn’t working for you, your doctor might recommend a CPAP unit. Although CPAP is the most effective method up till now. But it varies from patient to patient too.
Complications of Sleep Apnea:
If left untreated, sleep apnea can get serious, causing potential health issues.
It begins with fatigue throughout the day and leads to heart diseases, chances of stroke, and diabetes too.
THE BOTTOM LINE:
Sleep apnea is a potentially harmful sleep disorder as it disrupts your sleep regulation and gradually weakens your muscles too. Thus, getting it treated at the right time is important. If you have been experiencing trouble with your sleeping pattern; you must visit a doctor immediately.
