Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a disorder of the respiratory tract that arises due to repetitive collapse of parts of the airways during sleep. OSA occurs due to the relaxation of the soft tissues supporting the soft palate, tongue and throat. In severe conditions, the airways narrow and close, temporarily blocking breathing. Due to the narrowing of the airways, your chest muscles and diaphragm will work extra hard to pull into your lungs and ensure the air passages remain open. This can lead to daytime symptoms of headache, poor concentration, difficulty with mental focus, increased tiredness and lack of energy. The prevalence of OSA in Australia ranges from 9-38% in adults, and it’s more common in men than in women.