Sleep Apnea Treatment Singapore | Snoring Treatment Singapore

About Snoring and OSA

Snoring is a common sleep-related issue that affects millions of people worldwide. While occasional snoring may be harmless, chronic snoring can indicate an underlying sleep disorder, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) that requires attention.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated episodes of complete or partial obstruction of the upper airway during sleep. This obstruction leads to interrupted breathing patterns, resulting in fragmented sleep and decreased oxygen levels in the bloodstream.

Understanding the symptoms, causes, and risk factors associated with snoring and OSA is essential for effective management and treatment.

illustration of a man snoring. obstructive sleep apnea symptoms

Symptoms of OSA

The most obvious symptom of OSA is snoring which is the characteristic sound produced during sleep, which occurs when airflow is obstructed in the upper airway. Other symptoms may include:

Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
Morning headaches
Difficulty concentrating or irritability
Nocturia (excessive urination at night)

What are the causes of OSA?

The primary cause of OSA is the relaxation of the muscles in the throat during sleep, leading to the collapse or narrowing of the airway. Several factors can contribute to this, including obesity, anatomical abnormalities (such as enlarged tonsils or a deviated septum), and certain lifestyle habits (like smoking or alcohol consumption).

How do I diagnose OSA?

Sleep Apnoea is typically diagnosed through a sleep study, also known as polysomnography. This comprehensive test measures various parameters during sleep, including breathing patterns, oxygen levels, and brain activity, to determine the presence and severity of OSA.

How serious is OSA?

Sleep Apnea can have serious consequences if left untreated. It increases the risk of cardiovascular problems such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke. Additionally, it can lead to daytime fatigue, impaired cognitive function, and decreased quality of life.

Will medication interfere with OSA?

Certain medications, such as muscle relaxants or sedatives, can worsen the symptoms of Sleep Apnea by further relaxing the throat muscles and exacerbating airway obstruction. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting or adjusting any medication regimen.

If you or a loved one experiences chronic snoring or related symptoms, seeking evaluation by a healthcare professional, such as an ENT specialist, can help determine the underlying cause and develop an effective treatment plan.

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Treatment Options Available For OSA

Sleep Apnea Treatment Singapore. obstructive sleep apnea treatment

Lifestyle Modifications:

Making lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, and sleeping on your side, can help reduce snoring.

Positional Therapy:

Using positional devices or pillows to encourage sleeping on your side can help prevent snoring associated with sleeping on your back.

Oral Appliances:

Custom-fitted oral appliances, such as mandibular advancement devices (MADs) or tongue-retaining devices (TRDs), can help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw or tongue during sleep.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP):

CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask connected to a machine that delivers a continuous flow of air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.

Surgery:

In some cases, surgical procedures, such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or septoplasty, may be recommended to address anatomical abnormalities contributing to snoring.

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