Respiratory Medicine

Sleep apnea is one of the most common sleep-related disorders. In patients affected by sleep apnea, breathing might become shallow or even stop during sleep, causing fluctuations in blood oxygen levels, blood pressure and heart rate. Sleep apnoea not only causes fragmented and poor sleep but can also increase the risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. Common adverse outcomes include hypertension, arrhythmia, impaired glucose and lipid metabolism, ischemic heart disease and reduced short term memory. 

Symptom of Sleep Apnea 

• Loud snoring
• Restless sleep
• Tiredness and daytime sleepiness
• Waking up often to urinate 

Sleep Study (Polysomnography) 
A Sleep Study (Polysomnography) is a test to measure how well you sleep and check for sleep problems. During the test, you need to stay overnight in a sleep lab at hospital. Before you sleep, a technician attaches small, sticky electrodes to your head, chest and legs. They will also place a small tube beneath your nose which connected to monitors. The monitors will then monitor your movement, brain activity, breathing and other body functions while your sleep. 

Therapeutic options for Sleep Apnea 
Therapeutic options are considered based on the types of sleep apnea: Obstructive/ Mixed Sleep Apnea (OSA/MSA) or Central Sleep Apnea (CSA). Suitable treatment regimen is formulated according to the severity, risk of vascular disease and underlying cause of sleep apnea. Common treatments include: 

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) devices
• Oral Appliance
• Positional Therapy
• Weight Management
• Surgical Treatment