Sleep Apnoea Myths Debunked: Separating Fact from Fiction

Myth 3: Sleep Apnoea is Just a Bad Case of Snoring; It’s Not Serious

Fact: This could not be further from the truth.

Sleep apnoea is a serious medical condition that can lead to;

• heart disease
• high blood pressure
• stroke
• diabetes
• depression

If untreated the above conditions can result is serious chronic conditions.  The repeated oxygen deprivation and sleep fragmentation associated with sleep apnoea have significant health implications.

Myth 4: If You Have Sleep Apnoea, You Will Know

Fact: Many people with sleep apnoea are unaware of their condition. Since the symptoms occur during sleep, it's often a partner or family member who first notices signs like snoring or periods of stopped breathing.

Common markers are snoring, gasping for breath in the night and dry mouth in the morning. Whilst these symptoms are common as we discuss they are not always prevalent.   

Daytime fatigue and morning headaches can also suggest sleep apnoea but are often attributed to other causes.

Always ask your GP - could it be sleep apnoea?

Myth 5: Every Individual with Sleep Apnoea Experiences Snoring

Fact: Up to 20% of diagnosed sleep apnoea patients do not display traditional snoring characteristics.

According to The John Hopkins study, the acid test for sleep apnoea, referred to as 'witnessed sleep apnoea' is when a person can physically observe a patient either gasping for breath or stop breathing.  

Causes of Sleep Apnoea

The most common form of the condition, Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA), occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much during sleep, blocking the airway. Central Sleep Apnoea, less common, happens when the brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Risk factors include obesity, genetics, certain physical traits (like a narrow airway), smoking, childhood and alcohol use.

Treatments for Sleep Apnoea

Lifestyle Changes

For mild cases, lifestyle changes such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and sleeping on one's side can significantly improve symptoms. Choosing the right sleep apnoea pillow can be the only change you need. 

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) 

The most common treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnoea, CPAP machines keep the airway open by providing a steady stream of air through a mask worn during sleep. 

Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BPAP)

Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BPAP) is a type of respiratory therapy that provides two levels of pressure to individuals during sleep.

It's commonly used to treat sleep apnea, particularly in cases where Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy has not been effective or is poorly tolerated.

Unlike CPAP, which delivers a constant stream of air at a single pressure, BPAP devices supply air at a higher pressure when the user inhales and switch to a lower pressure upon exhalation. This dual-pressure system can make breathing feel more comfortable and natural for some users.

Oral Appliances

These devices, designed to keep the throat open, are an option for those who cannot tolerate CPAP.

They're particularly effective for mild to moderate sleep apnoea.

Surgery

In cases where other treatments have failed and the apnoea is due to a physical obstruction, surgery might be considered to remove or shrink the obstructing tissue.

Positional Therapy

For individuals whose sleep apnoea is position-dependent (worse when lying on the back), positional therapy can encourage sleeping in a different position. 

For those experiencing sleep apnoea primarily when lying on their back, positional therapy offers a simple yet effective solution. By encouraging a different sleeping position, it can significantly alleviate symptoms.

Putnams' range of specially designed pillows and supports are crafted to facilitate this change comfortably, ensuring you maintain the optimal position throughout the night for a restful sleep.

Explore our products tailored for positional therapy and discover how they can transform your sleep experience.

Putting Sleep Apnoea Myths to Bed

Sleep apnoea is a complex and wide ranging condition, but understanding the facts can empower individuals to seek appropriate treatment.

By debunking these common myths, we hope to raise awareness and encourage those affected to take steps toward a healthier, more restful night's sleep. If you suspect you or a loved one has sleep apnoea, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action. If you need to know more check ouyt the most comprehensive guide to sleep apnoea in the UK, The Sleep Apnoea Trust.

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