Today, on World Sleep Day, it is crucial to shed light on a sleep disorder that often goes unnoticed but carries serious implications for overall health and well-being. King Hamad American Mission Hospital’s consultant pulmonologist, Dr Amit Panjwani, engages in a conversation with GDN Media’s client editor, Jayne Houghton, to articulate the significant impact of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).
World Sleep Day, created and hosted by World Sleep Society, is an internationally-recognised event that builds connections and raises sleep health awareness among researchers, healthcare workers, patients and the general public.
One of the most worrisome conditions coming under its focus is obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), characterised by the complete or partial closure of the airway during sleep, extending beyond the common associations of snoring and daytime sleepiness.
“The disorder is more than just troublesome snoring; it significantly affects sleep satisfaction, alertness and efficiency while awake,” warned King Hamad American Mission Hospital’s consultant pulmonologist, Dr Amit Panjwani.
Dr Panjwani
Dr Panjwani underscored the pervasive nature of OSA. “Even a modest 10 per cent weight gain is associated with a six-fold increase in the risk of developing OSA,” he added.
This revelation emphasises the link between lifestyle factors and the prevalence of the alarming sleep disorder, urging individuals to be mindful of their overall health.
Complications of untreated sleep apnoea extend far beyond the bedroom, as Dr Panjwani explained. “Reduced alertness, difficulty concentrating, and increased sleepiness can elevate the risk of crashes, accidents and errors in the workplace,” he said.
Studies indicate that severe OSA sufferers are more than twice as likely to be involved in road accidents compared to those driving without the condition.
The link between OSA and cardiovascular health is alarming too. “Individuals with untreated OSA face an increased risk or worsened control of cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, heart attack, abnormal heart rhythms, or stroke,” revealed Dr Panjwani.
Shockingly, 50 per cent of patients with high blood pressure and 90pc of those requiring multiple medications for high blood pressure suffer from OSA, indicating a critical connection between the two health concerns.
Blocked breathing
Adding to the gravity of the situation, Dr Panjwani warned that severe OSA can increase the risk of fatal cardiovascular events, underlining the life-threatening potential associated with untreated sleep apnoea. Moreover, he pointed out a startling statistic, stating that 72pc of patients with diabetes suffered from OSA, emphasising the need for heightened awareness and proactive screening.
Addressing the impact beyond physical health, patients with OSA have a higher prevalence of depression than the general population.
Symptoms of sleep apnoea, including irritability and stress, can significantly hamper work performance by reducing motivation, satisfaction and effective communication.
An accurate diagnosis of OSA through an in-centre or home-sleep apnoea test highlights the necessity for a thorough medical assessment of suspected sufferers.
Fortunately, there is hope in the form of treatment. “Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) stands out as the most effective, predictable and commonly used treatment for sleep apnoea,” said Dr Panjwani.
CPAP utilises air pressure from a mechanical device to keep the upper airway open during sleep, providing relief for those grappling with this sleep disorder.
As people commemorate World Sleep Day, they are urged to collectively acknowledge the gravity of obstructive sleep apnoea. It is more than just a disruptive sleep disorder; it is a silent threat to overall health and daily functioning.
By raising awareness and understanding, we can pave the way for early detection, intervention and an improved quality of life for those affected by OSA, the consultant added.
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