Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a condition where the walls of the throat relax and narrow during sleep, interrupting normal breathing.
People with Down’s Syndrome’s physical and physiological characteristics place them at higher risk of OSA e.g. obesity, thick neck, midface hypoplasia, or a large tongue
Approximately 50% of adults with Down’s Syndrome are affected by obstructive sleep apnoea.
There are two types of breathing interruption characteristic of OSA:
Apnoea – where the muscles and soft tissues in the throat relax and collapse sufficiently to cause a total blockage of the airway; and the airflow is blocked for 10 seconds or more
Hypopnoea – a partial blockage of the airway that results in an airflow reduction of greater than 50% for 10 seconds or more.
- Loud snoring
- Noisy and laboured breathing
- Repeated short periods where breathing is interrupted by gasping or snorting
- Not feeling refreshed after waking up
- Feeling very sleepy during the day
- Poor memory and concentration
- Headaches, particularly in the morning
- Irritability and mood swings
- Lifestyle changes such as weight loss or stop smoking
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
- Mandibular advancement device (MAD)
Signs of OSA ...
Symptoms of OSA ...
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is usually diagnosed after observed sleep studies at a sleep clinic, or by using a testing device worn overnight at home
Changes in mood, behaviour or abilities may be associated with Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA).The signs and symptoms of OSA may easily be overlooked or misattributed to other disorders if not enquired about specifically.
What can be a sign of obstructive sleep apnoea?
Restless Leg Syndrome
What can be a symptom of obstructive sleep apnoea?
Irritability and mood swings