Sleep disorders in pulmonology: How do they affect your breathing?

Sleep disorders and breathing issues are closely linked, particularly when it comes to conditions that fall under the realm of pulmonology. These disorders, such as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and central sleep apnoea (CSA), can significantly impact sleep quality and overall health. Understanding how sleep disorders affect your breathing is essential for early diagnosis and treatment.

What are the common sleep disorders affecting breathing?

Several sleep disorders are known to interfere with normal breathing patterns, including:

• Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA): The airway becomes partially or completely blocked during sleep, leading to repeated pauses in breathing.
• Central sleep apnoea (CSA): Unlike OSA, CSA occurs when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
• Obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS): Excess weight can impair lung function and lead to low oxygen levels during sleep.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD): People with COPD may experience exacerbated breathing difficulties at night due to decreased oxygen saturation.

How do sleep disorders affect your breathing?

Sleep disorders disrupt the normal breathing process, often leading to:

• Frequent breathing interruptions: OSA and CSA can cause repeated pauses in breathing, reducing oxygen supply to vital organs.
• Snoring: A common symptom of OSA, caused by airflow turbulence due to partial airway obstruction.
• Daytime fatigue: Poor oxygenation and disrupted sleep cycles result in excessive tiredness and reduced concentration.
• Cardiovascular strain: The heart works harder during apnoea episodes, increasing the risk of conditions such as high blood pressure, arrhythmias, and heart disease.

How are sleep-related breathing disorders diagnosed?

Pulmonologists use a combination of assessments to diagnose sleep disorders, including:

• Medical history and symptom evaluation: Discussing sleep patterns, snoring and daytime symptoms.
• Sleep studies (polysomnography): Overnight monitoring of breathing, oxygen levels and other physiological parameters.
• Home sleep tests: Portable devices that monitor breathing and oxygen levels at home.
• Pulmonary function tests: For conditions like OHS or COPD, to evaluate lung function and capacity.

Treatment options for sleep-related breathing disorders

Treatment depends on the specific disorder and its severity:

• Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP): A common therapy for OSA, CPAP keeps the airway open using pressurised air.
• Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, avoiding alcohol before bedtime, and sleeping on your side can improve symptoms of OSA and OHS.
• Oral appliances: Custom devices that reposition the jaw to prevent airway obstruction during sleep.
• Oxygen therapy: For patients with conditions like COPD or CSA, supplemental oxygen may be required.
• Surgical interventions: For severe cases of OSA, procedures such as uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or maxillomandibular advancement can help widen the airway.

Why is early diagnosis important?

Left untreated, sleep-related breathing disorders can lead to severe complications, including:

• High blood pressure;
• Heart disease or stroke;
• Cognitive decline and memory issues;
• Impaired quality of life due to chronic fatigue and mood changes.

If you experience symptoms such as loud snoring, frequent awakenings, or persistent daytime fatigue, consulting a pulmonologist for a thorough evaluation is crucial. Treating sleep disorders can restore restful sleep, improve breathing, and protect long-term health.