DENTAL SLEEP MEDICINE – SLEEP APNEA AND SNORING

It is estimated that one-third of the Australian population suffers from sleep disorders and the impact on individuals is considerable. Clinically, people suffering from sleep disorders have an increased likelihood of cardiovascular disease, hypertension and mortality. At the same time, these individuals experience reduced cognitive performance that lowers job performance, decreases their quality of life and makes them many times more likely to be involved in a motor vehicle accident. These individuals are more susceptible to work related injuries, depression and family discord as well.

Snoring can be a case of much frustration particularly when loud and excessive. Snoring may be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition known as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). During normal breathing air passes through the nose, past the flexible structures at the back of the throat which include the tongue, soft palate and uvula and into the lungs. Whilst we are awake muscles hold the airway open. In healthy sleep these muscles relax but the airway remains open. In obstructive sleep apnoea the relaxed muscle activity leads to a closing of the throat and airway, which forces sufferers to take a deep breath of air and awakens them. This cycle repeats throughout the night, preventing the individual from getting a restful, deep sleep.