Snoring & Sleep Apnoea

Sleep apnoea is usually associated with snoring.

The breathing suddenly stops, lasting from anywhere between 10 to 30 seconds, 20 to 100 times per hour all night long. A sleep apnoea sufferer is usually unaware of this condition until he is told by someone sharing their home. Sleep apnoea occurs when the airflow triggers the muscles at the back of the throat to vibrate, causing the noises of snoring. The muscles close and then open, causing the upper airway to get momentarily blocked, resulting in sleep apnoea.

Some of the signs or symptoms of sleep apnoea include waking up with a headache and dry throat, memory lapses, poor concentration and irritability. Sudden disruption in breathing may also cause low blood oxygen level. These problems coupled with repeated sleep impairment are risk factors for hypertension and heart disease.