Sleep Disorders
Breathing-related sleep disorders are very common and can cause severe tiredness.
If left untreated, sleep disorders can significantly impact a person’s quality of life, overall health, and co-morbidities. The specialists at North Brisbane Sleep and Thoracic are highly trained sleep and respiratory physicians, experienced in caring for simple to complex cases. They utilise the latest treatment approaches to provide patients with the best possible treatment outcomes.
Types of Breathing-Related Sleep Disorders
There are numerous types of breathing-related sleep disorders, each presenting with different symptoms and causes. Some of the conditions treated at North Brisbane Sleep and Thoracic are addressed below.Â
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
Obstructive sleep apnoea is a breathing-related sleep disorder characterised by repeated partial or complete blockages of the upper airway during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing and frequent awakenings. These obstructions, often caused by relaxed throat muscles and tissues, result in loud snoring and daytime sleepiness.
Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome
Upper airway resistance syndrome is a less severe form of obstructive sleep apnoea, characterised by increased resistance to airflow in the upper airway, leading to breathing difficulties. People with upper airway resistance syndrome often experience daytime sleepiness, frequent awakenings, and fatigue due to the increased effort required to breathe properly during the night.
Central Sleep Apnoea
Individuals with central sleep apnoea experience pauses in breathing during sleep. This occurs because either the brain does not transmit the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing, or the muscles do not respond to the signals. Importantly, there is no physical obstruction in the airway. Central sleep apnoea can cause abrupt awakenings, shortness of breath, and difficulties falling or staying asleep.
Catathrenia
Catathrenia, also known as nocturnal groaning, occurs when a person moans or groans loudly during their sleep, especially during the exhalation phase. This monotonous groaning sound is often not remembered upon waking. While it usually does not disturb the person experiencing it, catathrenia can disrupt the sleep of nearby individuals.
Sleep-Related Hypoxemia Disorder
Sleep-related hypoxemia disorder refers to a condition where oxygen levels in the blood drop significantly during sleep, leading to hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels). This disorder often occurs in conjunction with other respiratory conditions, such as sleep apnoea, and can lead to serious health complications if left untreated.
Sleep-Related Hypoventilation Disorder
Sleep-related hypoventilation disorder is characterised by abnormally low breathing during sleep, leading to elevated levels of carbon dioxide in the blood. This disorder is often associated with obesity and conditions that affect the respiratory system. Individuals with this disorder may experience daytime sleepiness, headaches, and difficulty concentrating due to the inadequate exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide during sleep.
Treating Sleep Disorders in North Lakes
At North Brisbane Sleep and Thoracic, the knowledgeable specialists can diagnose sleep disorders through physical examinations, reviews of medical history, and specialised sleep tests, including polysomnograms. After establishing a diagnosis, the specialists can recommend and guide sleep and lung treatment tailored to your condition, lifestyle, and goals.
We are also passionate about a holistic approach towards sleep and lung care. The specialists seek to understand and treat associated problems occurring in patients with sleep disorders to provide better outcomes. Associated problems may include treatment-resistant hypertension, arrhythmias, and pulmonary hypertension.
For specialised care and individualised treatment, book an appointment with one of the specialists at North Brisbane Sleep and Thoracic today.
Contact us to book an appointment
Visit us at either our Clayfield or North Lakes location and experience compassionate care in a comfortable environment, tailored to meet your unique needs.
