SLEEP STUDY AND SLEEP APNEA INFORMATION IN NEW DELHI, INDIA
by CPAPNOW.IN
Your Trusted Source for Sleep Knowledge
SLEEP EDUCATION
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Health Risks of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Sleep problems caused by breathing difficulties — such as loud snoring, interrupted breathing, or Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) — can seriously affect your quality of life. Many people underestimate the impact of untreated sleep apnea, but over time it may contribute to serious health complications.
If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase the risk of:
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Persistent daytime fatigue and low energy
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High blood pressure (hypertension)
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Heart disease, irregular heart rhythms, and heart attacks
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Type 2 diabetes
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Stroke
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Depression and mood disorders
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Complications during surgery or while taking certain medications
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Liver function problems
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Sleep disruption for your partner
Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking proper diagnosis through a sleep study can help prevent these risks and improve overall health.
Recognizing the Signs of Sleep Apnea and Taking the First Step Toward Treatment
Taking the first step toward treating sleep apnea begins with recognizing its signs and symptoms.
Studies show that nearly 80% of people with sleep apnea are unaware they have the condition. Because symptoms often occur during sleep — such as loud snoring, breathing pauses, or gasping — many individuals do not realize there is a problem.
The good news is that sleep apnea is treatable. With proper diagnosis through a professional sleep study in New Delhi, you can identify the severity of your condition and begin the right treatment plan. Effective management of sleep apnea can significantly improve your energy levels, heart health, and overall quality of life. The key is choosing a treatment option that fits your symptoms, medical condition, and lifestyle.
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Benefits of Treating Sleep Apnea After a Sleep Study in New Delhi
Treating sleep apnea has been clinically proven to reduce symptoms and significantly improve overall health and quality of life.
After undergoing a professional sleep study in New Delhi, patients can receive an accurate diagnosis and begin the most appropriate treatment. With proper therapy, many individuals experience deeper, uninterrupted sleep, improved concentration, better mood stability, and higher daytime energy levels.
Effective treatment not only supports heart health and metabolic function but also contributes to a healthier mental outlook and long-term well-being.
Early diagnosis through a reliable sleep study is the key to preventing complications and restoring restful, healthy sleep.
UNDERSTANDING SLEEP APNEA
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses in breathing can last for several seconds and may occur multiple times throughout the night, reducing oxygen levels in the body.
The most common type is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which occurs when the airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep. Common symptoms include:
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Loud, chronic snoring
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Gasping or choking during sleep
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Morning headaches
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Excessive daytime sleepiness
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Difficulty concentrating
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Irritability or mood changes
Many individuals are unaware they have sleep apnea because the symptoms occur while they are asleep. Without proper diagnosis, the condition may increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
A professional sleep study in New Delhi can accurately diagnose sleep apnea and determine its severity. Early detection allows patients to begin appropriate treatment, such as CPAP therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or other medical interventions.
Understanding sleep apnea is the first step toward protecting your long-term health and improving your quality of life.
For more information on sleep apnea, treatment options, and CPAP therapy, visit our FAQ page for detailed answers.”
WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes breathing to repeatedly stop during sleep. It is a potentially serious disorder with both short- and long-term health risks, affecting more than 1 in 3 men and 1 in 6 women.
What causes sleep apnea?
There are three primary types of sleep apnea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), which affects more than 80% of people with sleep apnea, occurs when the throat muscles relax or become enlarged, blocking the upper airway and restricting airflow into and out of the lungs.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) is linked to the central nervous system and occurs when the brain temporarily fails to send proper signals to the muscles responsible for breathing, usually until oxygen levels drop or carbon dioxide levels rise.
Complex Sleep Apnea (CompSA), also known as treatment-emergent sleep apnea, is a combination of both OSA and CSA.
Eventually, the brain recognizes that breathing has stopped and briefly wakes you so you can gasp and resume breathing. You then fall back asleep, and the cycle repeats. This can occur more than 120 times per hour, even though you may not remember these awakenings.
As you can imagine, these repeated apneas place significant short- and long-term stress on the body.
During an apnea episode, airflow to the lungs stops for 10 seconds or longer — meaning you temporarily stop breathing. Repeated oxygen deprivation and constant sleep interruptions, hour after hour and night after night, create substantial strain on your heart, brain, and overall health.
Sleep apnea affects more than 3 in 10 men and nearly 1 in 5 women, making it far more common than many people realize.
Sleep apnea affects more than 3 in 10 men and nearly 1 in 5 women, making it far more widespread than most people recognize. In fact, many individuals suffer silently, never realizing that their fatigue, mood swings, or difficulty concentrating are tied to poor sleep.
Without treatment, sleep apnea can lead to serious complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. By raising awareness, more people can recognize the subtle signs, seek a proper diagnosis, and take steps toward better health.
Short-term effects of sleep apnea
Apneas not only create the immediate danger of reduced oxygen intake and inadequate removal of carbon dioxide, but they also repeatedly disrupt normal sleep. These frequent awakenings can lead to chronic sleep deprivation.
As a result, individuals may experience low energy levels, reduced alertness during the day, mood changes, and strain in personal relationships. Over time, untreated sleep apnea may also increase the risk of memory problems, cognitive decline, and accidental injuries.
Long-term effects of sleep apnea
Untreated sleep apnea has been associated with a higher risk of serious and chronic health conditions, including hypertension (high blood pressure), heart disease, and heart failure. It has also been linked to poor blood sugar control in individuals with type 2 diabetes.
The first step toward effective treatment and better overall health is recognizing the signs and symptoms of sleep apnea and speaking with a doctor about proper screening and testing. Nearly 80% of people with sleep apnea are unaware they have the condition, largely because the symptoms occur during sleep and cannot be easily observed.
Common sleep apnea symptoms
Although snoring remains one of the strongest indicators of sleep apnea in both men and women, not everyone who snores has the condition. More importantly, not everyone with sleep apnea snores. Below are other common signs and symptoms of sleep apnea:
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Constant tiredness
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Poor concentration
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Night sweats
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Weight gain
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Lack of energy
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Forgetfulness
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Sexual dysfunction
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Frequent urination at night
In addition, women may experience more subtle or atypical symptoms, including insomnia, morning headaches, depression, and anxiety. Because these signs can resemble other conditions, they are sometimes misdiagnosed as depression, chronic insomnia, or menopausal changes. If you are experiencing these symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor about the possibility of sleep apnea.
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WHY DO WE SNORE
So why do we snore?
Snoring occurs when airflow cannot move freely through the nose and throat during sleep. When the airway becomes partially blocked, the surrounding tissues vibrate as air passes through, producing the sound known as snoring.
From an anatomical perspective, snoring is usually caused by a narrowing of the upper airway — which includes the nose, soft palate, tongue, and throat. During sleep, the muscles of the neck and throat naturally relax.
If this relaxation becomes excessive, the airway can become too narrow, restricting airflow to the lungs. As a result, turbulent airflow creates vibrations in the soft tissues, leading to snoring. In some cases, frequent or loud snoring may also be a warning sign of obstructive sleep apnea and should not be ignored.
What are the leading causes of snoring?
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Body weight- Being overweight is one of the leading causes of snoring. A higher Body Mass Index (BMI) increases the likelihood of excess fatty tissue around the neck and throat, which can narrow the airway and restrict airflow during sleep. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent sleep habits can significantly reduce or even eliminate snoring.
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Smoking, Alcohol and Drugs- Smoking and alcohol consumption relax the muscles of the throat and upper airway, increasing the risk of airway collapse during sleep. This leads to breathing disturbances and snoring. Some medications, particularly sedatives, can also cause excessive muscle relaxation, further contributing to snoring.
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Built- Body structure An individual’s anatomy plays an important role in snoring. Men are generally more likely to snore than women because they tend to have narrower air passages. Structural factors such as a naturally narrow throat, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, a deviated septum, or certain genetic traits can also increase the risk of snoring.
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Age- As the body ages, the throat naturally becomes narrower and muscle tone decreases. This increased airway relaxation makes snoring more common in older adults. Although aging cannot be prevented, healthy lifestyle habits, proper sleep routines, and targeted throat exercises may help reduce snoring.
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Blocked nose or nasal cavity- A blocked nose caused by allergies, colds, sinus infections, pollution, or climate changes can interfere with smooth breathing during sleep. When airflow through the nose is restricted, pressure changes in the throat can trigger snoring. A blocked nose or nasal congestion can restrict normal airflow during sleep, making breathing more difficult. When nasal passages are narrowed due to allergies, sinus infections, or a deviated septum, the body may shift to mouth breathing, which increases the likelihood of snoring. Proper evaluation and treatment of nasal blockage can help improve breathing quality and sleep health.
Impact of snoring
Snoring can disturb your sleep quality and significantly affect your bed partner or anyone sleeping nearby. Beyond being a nighttime nuisance, persistent or loud snoring may also indicate underlying health concerns. In some cases, it is associated with more serious medical risks, as explained below:
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Drop in Blood Oxygen Levels - One of the most immediate effects of severe snoring or breathing interruptions during sleep is a reduction in blood oxygen levels. Normal oxygen saturation typically ranges between 94% and 98%. When breathing becomes restricted for 30 seconds or longer, oxygen levels may drop significantly — sometimes to 80% or lower. Oxygen levels below 90% are considered unsafe and require immediate medical attention.
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Day-time Sleepiness – Because snoring disrupts normal breathing and fragments sleep, one of the most noticeable consequences is excessive daytime sleepiness. This can lead to irritability, reduced concentration, increased risk of road accidents, and in some cases, symptoms of depression.
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Headaches- Waking up with a headache is one of the common effects associated with frequent snoring. Research has shown a connection between snoring, sleep-related breathing disorders, and morning headaches. In some cases, habitual snorers may also experience persistent headaches throughout the day. Ongoing discomfort and poor sleep quality can contribute to irritability and noticeable mood changes.
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Heart Diseases- Sleep disorders, particularly sleep apnea, are strongly linked to cardiovascular complications, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and heart failure. Research indicates that individuals with sleep apnea may have nearly twice the risk of developing heart disease or experiencing a heart attack compared to those without the condition. In addition, chronic snoring and untreated sleep apnea can increase the risk of irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), which may further impact overall heart health.
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Strokes- Frequent and severe snoring may be associated with an increased risk of stroke. Research suggests that chronic snoring can contribute to changes in the carotid arteries in the neck, including narrowing caused by fatty plaque buildup. This narrowing may reduce healthy blood flow to the brain, increasing the risk of stroke over time.
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Accidents- Sleep apnea related to chronic snoring can cause excessive daytime sleepiness. This persistent fatigue may increase the likelihood of falling asleep while driving or during activities that require full attention and alertness. As a result, the risk of serious accidents, including road accidents, can significantly increase.
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Mental Health Concerns- As mentioned earlier, chronic snoring and disrupted sleep can contribute to mood changes, including increased irritability. Over time, poor sleep quality may also be associated with symptoms of anxiety and mild depression. Find trusted information on snoring causes, from nidirect, the official Northern Ireland government health portal
DO YOU SNORE?
Do you think you might be snoring at night or disturbing your partner’s sleep? If so, it’s important to find out and address the issue early.
Here are a few simple, non-technical ways to help you better understand your sleep patterns and identify possible snoring problems:
Talk to your bed-partner
It is often said that open communication solves half the problem — and this applies to snoring as well. Since it can be difficult to know whether you snore, asking your partner for honest feedback is a simple and effective first step. They may already be aware of the issue and simply waiting for you to start the conversation.
Get your recorder on
When no one is available to observe your sleep, technology can be a helpful solution. If you sleep alone, using an audio or video recording device to monitor your sleep and snoring patterns can provide useful insights. Simply record your sleep & review the footage the next day to assess whether snoring or also breathing interruptions are occurring.
Daytime indicators
Night-time indicators
Snoring can lead to daytime fatigue, morning headaches, and increased irritability after waking up. If you frequently experience these symptoms, they may indicate an underlying snoring or sleep-related breathing issue. Pay attention to persistent mood swings or difficulty concentrating for extended periods, as these can also be linked to disrupted sleep caused by snoring.
If you wake up in the middle of the night feeling short of breath or experiencing a sudden choking sensation, snoring or an underlying sleep-related breathing disorder may be the cause. Also In many cases, persistent snoring can also lead to restless & fragmented sleep. The Snoring can be categorized into different types, depending on where the airway obstruction originates. Below are four common types of snoring.
Mouth-based snoring
This type of snoring occurs when you breathe primarily through your mouth, rather than your nose, during sleep. Mouth breathing can increase airway vibration and contribute to snoring. In some cases, supportive devices such as specially designed mouth tapes or oral appliances may help encourage nasal breathing and reduce snoring.
Tongue-based snoring
This type of snoring occurs when the tongue relaxes and falls backward toward the throat, partially blocking the airway and making breathing more difficult during sleep. A Mandibular Advancement Device (MAD) is often recommended in such cases. It works by gently moving the lower jaw forward, helping to keep the airway open and preventing the tongue from obstructing the back of the throat.
Nose-based snoring
Throat-based snoring
This type of snoring occurs when the nostrils are blocked or congested, restricting airflow through the nasal passages. The reduced airflow can create airway resistance and lead to snoring during sleep. Nasal dilator strips may help keep the nasal passages open and improve breathing. In addition, quitting smoking can significantly reduce nasal inflammation and improve overall airway health.
This type of snoring is caused by the vibration of excess soft tissue in the throat during sleep. Additional tissue around the airway can narrow the passage and increase airflow resistance, leading to snoring. In such cases, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing excess body fat may help decrease the severity of snoring.
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HOW TO STOP SNORING?
Treatment options for snoring vary depending on several factors, but two of the most important considerations are:
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Do you primarily snore through your nose or your throat?
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Is your snoring associated with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)?
The good news
There are effective treatment options available for throat snorers, including those who also have sleep apnea. These treatments can address mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), as well as more severe cases, depending on the individual’s condition and diagnosis.
Throat snorers who don’t have sleep apnea
You fall into this category if you have been tested for sleep apnea and received an Apnea–Hypopnea Index (AHI) score of less than 5, which is considered within the normal range. If you are unsure of your AHI score, it is important to undergo proper screening, as choosing the wrong treatment without an accurate diagnosis may not address the root cause of your snoring.
For individuals who primarily snore due to throat-related airway narrowing, one effective treatment option is a custom-made oral device worn during sleep. This device gently moves the lower jaw forward, helping to keep the airway open and reducing vibration at the back of the throat.
These oral appliances are known by various names, commonly referred to as Mandibular Repositioning Devices (MRD) or Mandibular Advancement Devices (MAD).
If your snoring is mainly caused by nasal blockage rather than throat obstruction, an oral device may not be the most suitable option. In such cases, treatments such as nasal sprays, nasal strips, chin straps, or medical evaluation for underlying nasal conditions may be more appropriate. Consulting a qualified sleep specialist is always recommended for proper guidance.
Throat snorers with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea
If your Apnea–Hypopnea Index (AHI) score falls between 5 and 30, this generally indicates mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In such cases, treatment options may include a Mandibular Repositioning Device (MRD) or Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy, depending on the patient’s condition and medical recommendation. Oral appliances are often considered a first-line treatment for mild to moderate OSA and are a clinically supported alternative to PAP therapy for suitable candidates.
Some patients find oral appliances more comfortable and easier to use than CPAP machines, which may improve long-term compliance. When used consistently and in appropriately selected cases, oral devices can provide effective results comparable to PAP therapy for mild to moderate OSA.
Throat snorers with severe OSA
If your Apnea–Hypopnea Index (AHI) score is above 30, this indicates severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) therapy is typically recommended as the first-line treatment. There are different types of PAP therapy available, including Automatic Positive Airway Pressure (APAP), Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), and Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP), depending on the patient’s specific needs.
In cases where a patient is unable to tolerate or adapt to PAP therapy, a sleep physician may consider alternative treatments such as a Mandibular Repositioning Device (MRD), based on clinical evaluation and suitability.
Additional treatment options for snoring and sleep apnea may include surgical procedures or radiofrequency therapy, particularly when structural airway issues are present. A proper sleep study and medical consultation are essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
DO NOT NEGLECT SYMPTOMS
WHAT IS OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA (OSA)
So What is OSA?
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is the most common type of sleep-related breathing disorder. It is characterized by repeated blockage of the upper airway during sleep, causing breathing to pause for several seconds multiple times throughout the night. These interruptions can lead to a significant drop in blood oxygen levels, resulting in apnea episodes.
Individuals with OSA may snore loudly, snort, or gasp for air as breathing resumes. In some cases, they may also experience choking sensations due to temporary airway obstruction during sleep.
What are the major causes for OSA?
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Excess Body Weight: Being overweight can cause fat deposits around the neck and throat, narrowing the airway and increasing the risk of obstruction during sleep.
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Tongue Size and Position: A larger or thicker tongue may partially block the airway when muscles relax during sleep, restricting airflow.
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Deviated Septum: A displaced or crooked nasal septum can interfere with normal breathing. Severe cases may contribute to airway obstruction and worsen OSA symptoms.
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Smoking and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking can inflame the airway, while alcohol relaxes throat muscles excessively. Both increase the likelihood of airway collapse during sleep.
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Ageing: As muscle tone decreases with age, the airway becomes more prone to narrowing or collapsing during sleep.
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Underlying Medical Conditions: Conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes are commonly associated with OSA and may increase its severity.
Symptoms of OSA while sleeping
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Loud, Persistent Snoring: While snoring can also occur in Central Sleep Apnea (CSA), it is typically louder and more frequent in OSA.
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Breathing Pauses During Sleep: Individuals with OSA may experience repeated episodes where breathing temporarily stops, often followed by choking, snorting, or gasping for air.
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Restless or Disturbed Sleep: OSA can make it difficult to stay asleep, leading to frequent tossing, turning, or fragmented sleep.
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Sudden Awakening with Choking Sensation: A person may abruptly wake up feeling short of breath or choking due to airway obstruction.
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Frequent Nighttime Urination: Repeated awakenings may increase the need to visit the bathroom during the night.
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Waking Up Frequently to Drink Water: Dry mouth or throat irritation caused by mouth breathing can lead to repeated awakenings to drink water.
Symptoms of OSA During Daytime
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Daytime Sleepiness: Feeling low on energy and constantly tired indicates poor sleep quality.
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Morning Headaches: Frequent headaches upon waking may signal OSA, caused by low oxygen levels widening blood vessels.
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Dry Throat: Waking up with a dry or sore throat can be a sign of OSA, often due to mouth breathing during sleep.
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Mood Swings: Irritation, anxiety, or sudden mood changes may result from poor sleep caused by OSA; untreated cases can even lead to depression.
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Loss of Attention: OSA can affect cognitive function, making it hard to concentrate, remember things, or focus for long periods.
Treating OSA can Control Hyper-Tension
Obese Patients Have OSA
Understanding of Sleep Apnea Symptom
Treating OSA can Control Hyper-Tension
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WHAT IS INSOMNIA?
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder affecting millions worldwide. People with insomnia often struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, which can have serious physical and mental effects.
Key Effects:
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Daytime sleepiness and fatigue
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Mood swings, irritability, and anxiety
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Reduced overall well-being
Insomnia is also linked to a higher risk of chronic health conditions. According to the National Sleep Foundation, 30–40% of American adults report insomnia symptoms annually, while 10–15% experience chronic insomnia.
Fast Facts About Insomnia:
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Multiple causes exist, including psychological factors, medications, and hormone changes.
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Often linked to secondary factors such as illness or lifestyle habits.
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Treatments may include medical therapies or behavioral interventions.
Causes
Insomnia can result from both physical and psychological factors. Chronic insomnia may stem from an underlying medical condition, while temporary insomnia often occurs after a recent event. Common causes include:
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Disruptions in Circadian Rhythm: Jet lag, shift work, high altitudes, environmental noise, extreme temperatures.
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Psychological Issues: Anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, or psychotic disorders.
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Medical Conditions: Chronic pain, chronic fatigue syndrome, congestive heart failure, angina, GERD, COPD, asthma, sleep apnea, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, hyperthyroidism, arthritis, brain lesions, tumors, stroke.
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Hormonal Changes: Estrogen fluctuations or shifts during menstruation.
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Other Factors: Sleeping near a snoring partner, parasites, genetic conditions, overactive mind, or pregnancy.
WHAT IS SLEEP STUDY TEST?
Sleep Study
A sleep study records body activity during sleep and helps diagnose sleep disorders. The most comprehensive test, called a Polysomnogram (Polysomnography or PSG), is the gold standard for detecting obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
What Polysomnography Measures:
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Brain activity and eye movement
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Oxygen and carbon dioxide levels in the blood
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Heart rate and rhythm
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Breathing rate and airflow through the nose and mouth
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Snoring and muscle movements
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Chest and abdominal movements
Home Sleep Test (HST)
Also called an Out-of-Center Sleep Test (OCST), this is used mainly to diagnose sleep apnea. Portable equipment is provided for home use, typically recording airflow, respiratory effort, and oxygen levels.
How It Works for OSA:
In obstructive sleep apnea, breathing stops frequently during sleep, which can seriously affect health. A home sleep test allows the diagnosis of OSA in the comfort of your home.
Using a Home Sleep Test:
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Follow your usual evening routine.
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Set up the recording device as instructed.
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Sleep normally while the device records your sleep data.
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In the morning, remove the device and return it as demonstrated.
Find trusted information on sleep apnea, sleep study testing, and related sleep disorders from the CDC sleep and sleep disorders overview.
WHAT IS CPAP THERAPY
What is CPAP Therapy?
The CPAP device is the gold standard treatment for sleep disorders such as snoring and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It is one of the most widely used treatments for OSA, a condition where a person experiences repeated breathing interruptions during sleep due to blocked airways.
How CPAP Works:
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The user wears a nasal or full-face mask during sleep.
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The device delivers continuous positive airflow to keep the airway open.
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This prevents breathing interruptions, improves oxygen flow, and promotes restful sleep.
Why CPAP is Important:
OSA disrupts sleep, causing daytime drowsiness, anxiety, and poor concentration. Untreated OSA can increase the risk of:
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High blood pressure
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Diabetes
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Stroke
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Heart disease
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Obesity
Benefits of CPAP Therapy:
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Eliminates breathing interruptions and snoring
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Improves overall sleep quality
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Reduces daytime fatigue, especially in mild to moderate OSA
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Supports cardiovascular health and regulates blood pressure
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Enhances focus, attention, and mental clarity during the day
People diagnosed with sleep apnea in Delhi in India often benefit from using a CPAP machine to keep their airways open during sleep
To use a CPAP device effectively, selecting the right CPAP mask is essential for comfort and proper therapy.
WHY TREATMENT IS IMPORTANT
AVOID DAYTIME SLEEPINESS
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Reduce Your Daytime Sleepiness
Daytime sleepiness is a bigger issue than it seems and that is why it needs to be addressed more solemnly now than ever before. In fact, it is a lot more than what can be excused for having a tiring day or restless sleep at night. Researches state a striking relationship between sleep disorders and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), of which obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is one. Patients suffering from OSA often show symptoms of EDS caused due to poor nocturnal oxygenation and dysregulation of autonomic function. It is believed that these factors are responsible for the destruction of neural networks responsible for wake promotion, also it causes autonomic arousals causing disrupted sleep.
This is possibly the reason that people with sleep apnea wake up feeling fatigued and overly tired experiencing a phenomenon termed as Dysania or clinomania attributed by a feeling excessive stress or anxiousness while getting out of bed in the morning.
The fatigue and daytime sleepiness experienced by an OSA patient is different from feeling of tiredness and can have negative consequences if ignored for too long.
This is the reason it is advised to get regular health check-ups to diagnose the problem as early as possible to seek the best and effective treatment.
If getting up in the morning causes you extreme stress to you on most of your days and you find it difficult to keep your eyes open in the most demanding situations like driving, then it is a sign that your fatigue is not just due to physical tiredness but a lot more.
OSA is being recognized as the increasing cause of medical morbidity and mortality. It is important to spread the awareness about its causal factors and potential symptoms to let people recognize its prevalence in around them as well for themselves, to reduce the burden of sleep apnea globally.
Reduce Accidents
CPAP can help you become a safer driver by reducing your daytime sleepiness. Untreated sleep apnea makes you more likely to be involved in a deadly crash. Many people with sleep apnea have a hard time staying awake and concentrating while driving.
Can Control Diabetes & Reduce The Drug Load By Half
New Study Highlights Clinical and Economic Benefits of CPAP Therapy in sleep apnea Patients with Type 2 Diabetes.
While it is already a matter of concern, its association with OSA makes the situation even worse. Patients diagnosed with OSA live with a greater risk of developing type-2 diabetes or worsen the condition if they already have it. OSA tends to incite a state of severe insulin resistance, resulting in compensatory hyperinsulinemia thereby, increasing the requirement for higher doses of exogenous insulin. This condition eventually leads to the development of type-2 diabetes.
A recent study on the suspected relationship between OSA and diabetes found that snoring is independently associated with the increased risk of type-2 diabetes in males aged between 30-69 years and in females within 40-65 years of age group. The prevalence of diabetes is found to be higher up to 15%-30% in OSA patients than people without OSA
OSA, though a serious health risk is a treatable condition, and the benefits of the treatment also are seen on its co-morbid conditions too. Therefore, it is very important to seek timely treatment for your condition, to get a relief in its associated conditions. Many studies have shown that CPAP treatment for OSA has a positive effect on insulin control and improved diabetic conditions5. The promising results surely give a ray of hope to diabetic patients, suffering from OSA.
Control Blood Pressure
Out of many health problems associated with OSA high blood pressure or hypertension is also the one.
Researchers have proven time and again, how high blood pressure can lead to OSA or worsen the breathing pattern in patients already suffering from sleep apnea. Sleep apnea has been found highly relevant to high blood pressure.
Almost 50% of the times these two conditions were found co-existing in patients. Also, OSA has been proven as the second most prevalent contributor to high blood pressure.
During an OSA episode, there is a surge in systolic and diastolic pressure that can elevate the blood pressure during the night time. At times the blood pressure can remain elevated even in during the day when the breathing is normal.
This daytime surge in the blood pressure is a result of overactivity in the sympathetic nervous system and vascular function and structure alterations due to inflammation and oxidant stress.
This repeated phenomenon of disturbed blood pressure pattern can turn into a sustained health condition causing hypertension if the treatment is not provided at the right time.
Reduce The Risk of Heart Disease
By treating your sleep apnea, you can reduce your risk of heart disease. Sleep apnea is linked to a variety of heart problems because it causes you to stop breathing many times each night. These breathing pauses cause changes in your blood pressure and can reduce your blood oxygen levels. This puts an enormous strain on your heart.
People with untreated sleep apnea have a higher rate of death from heart disease than those without sleep apnea or with treated sleep apnea. Using CPAP therapy over an extended period of time can protect you from heart problems and reduce your chance of dying from them. These heart problems include:
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Congestive heart failure
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Coronary artery disease
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Irregular heartbeat
Reduce Your Risk Of Stroke
If you have sleep apnea, consistent CPAP use can reduce your risk of stroke, one of the leading causes of death and long-term disability. A stroke is a sudden loss in brain function. It occurs when there is a blockage or rupture in one of the blood vessels leading to the brain. People with untreated sleep apnea are two to four times more likely to have a stroke.
Mental Health
Sleep disorders are potential symptoms of almost every psychiatric illness. About 40% of patients who seek medical help for sleeping problems have a psychiatric condition. Meanwhile, to have a mental health disorder without sleep problems is quite rare: fewer than 20% of mental health patients don’t have sleep problems. in addition Snoring can lead to increased irritability in mood, and sometimes can even cause anxiety and mild depression.
