Sleep Health
With each passing year there is new research showing the sleep disorders are more prevalent and harmful than previously thought. However, we as individuals often overlook the signs and symptoms of an underlying condition that is both serious and treatable. Being aware of the common sleep conditions can help you know when to seek out medical advice and treatment to improve your sleep health.
Common Sleep Disorders
Read more...
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Sufferers of obstructive sleep apnea experience a partial or complete interruption of breathing during sleep. This is caused by repeated collapse of the upper airway while sleeping. People with this condition are often tired during the day. They may also snore, wake up gasping or choking, or awake with a headache. 17% of the general population is thought to have OSA, but the prevalence is higher in men, in older people, and in those who are overweight or obese. A combination of these factors could see your chance of developing OSA reach as high as 49%.
Those with untreated OSA risk developing cardiovascular disease like heart attack, metabolic disease like diabetes, stroke, and depression. There are also the complications of being overly tired, such as decreased ability to learn and concentrate, poor performance at work, and increased chance of a motor vehicle accident.
OSA is typically diagnosed with a sleep study, which you can do at home or in a sleep lab. The best first step is to speak to your GP who can help organize the sleep study or send you to a specialist sleep physician.
If your study shows that you do have OSA, there are a number of treatment options. More mild forms of the condition can be managed by lifestyle modifications like weight loss and smoking cessation, or by a dental device called a Mandibular Advancement Splint, which pushes the jaw forward to help open the airway at night. The most effective treatment is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP machine. This works by gently blowing pressurized air into your upper airway to prevent collapse. To learn more about CPAP, click here.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Like obstructive sleep apnea, CSA causes a disruption of breathing during sleep. However, in this condition the route cause is the interruption of the brain signals that control the muscles of breathing. In additional to the fatigue that can accompany any form of sleep apnea, CSA sufferers can also wake up feeling breathless, feel short of breath while lying down (orthopnea), or have chest pain. Other medical conditions like heart failure, cardiac arrhythmia and stroke can all contribute to the development of CSA. Central sleep apnea can then cause further cardiovascular problems.
Central sleep apnea can be diagnosed with an in lab sleep study. Specialist physician involvement is important, and CSA patients should see both a cardiologist and a sleep physician to make sure their heart and sleep problems are well managed. Treatment often involves the use of a positive pressure machine like CPAP, a ventilator like bi-level positive airway pressure (BPAP), or a more complex device like Adaptive Seroventilation (ASV).
Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a condition characterized by the uncontrollable urge to sleep during the day. While the exact cause is unknown, it is thought that the underproduction of certain brain chemicals (like hypocretin) are responsible for the disorder. Apart from attacks of sleepiness, sufferers can also experience a loss of voluntary muscle tone (cataplexy) and hallucinations that would only occur in health people as they were transitioning from wakefulness to sleep (hypnagogic hallucinations).
You are at higher risk of developing narcolepsy if you have a family history of the condition of if you have had brain injuries in the past. The chances of developing the disorder also increase with age. Sufferers often deal with personal and professional issues, including poor work performance, relationship problems, or stigma due to poor understanding of the disease. You are also at higher risk of injury when you have an episode.
Narcolepsy is diagnosed by a special type of sleep study called a Multiple Sleep Latency Test, or MSLT. This is carried out during the day and looks at how quickly you fall asleep. All patients with narcolepsy should be managed by a specialist sleep physician.
Restless Leg Syndrome
People with restless leg syndrome feel a discomfort in their lower limbs that is only relieved by moving their legs. They will move their legs around more during the transition from wakefulness to sleep and throughout the night. This causes a disruption of sleep, which leads to excessive daytime fatigue.
You are more likely to develop restless leg syndrome if you have a family history of the condition, or if you have another medical problem that effects the nervous system (e.g. peripheral neuropathy that can accompany diabetes).
You will most likely receive your diagnoses based on your description of your symptoms and a physical examination, although you may be asked to do an in-lab sleep study.
There are some medications that can be used to alleviate the symptoms. This condition is best managed by a specialist sleep physician.
Study Reveals Sleeping Too Much Can Increase Your Stroke Risk
We all have different sleeping preferences and night time routines – however a study has revealed that our sleeping habits could have a serious impact on our health. Research has found that the way you sleep could significantly impact your risk of having a stroke.
How To Sleep When You’re Feeling Anxious
Feeling anxious or stressed when you’re trying to fall asleep is a common struggle for many. People can feel anxious for a number of different reasons, however two psychologists have shared their five simple steps to help anyone struggling:
How The ’10-3-2-1-0 Formula’ Can Help You Sleep Better
If you are one to struggle with falling asleep, why not try a new viral sleep hygiene hack explained by US doctor, Dr. Jess Andrade, known as the ’10-3-2-1-0 method.’ This simple step-by-step guide prepares you for an optimal night’s sleep – here’s how:
Study Shows Sleep Apnea Can Lead To Depression
Do you find yourself waking up feeling unrefreshed after a night’s sleep? You may have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – a common sleep disorder which causes pauses in your breathing while you sleep. Studies show that those with OSA have a higher risk of developing depression.
Study Reveals How Exercise Can Prevent Sleep Apnea
It is well known that carrying extra weight is a risk factor for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – a common sleep disorder that causes pauses in breathing during sleep. Exercise is a great way to prevent many health problems, and is now shown to cut the risk of OSA by up to 31%.
How Alcohol Could Be Negatively Affecting Your Sleep
While alcohol can help you unwind from stress, it results in poorer sleep quality throughout the night. Here are four ways alcohol may be affecting your sleep:
How Getting Enough Sleep Makes You A Better Leader
One of the most critical components to running a successful business is getting enough sleep. Getting at least seven to eight hours of sleep a night as well as deep sleep is essential for optimal function and continued success.
The Link Between Sleep Apnea And Vascular Ageing
Sleep apnea is very common, affecting approximately 34% of middle-aged men and 17% of middle-aged women. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – being the most common type - is linked to cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, stroke and diabetes. However a recent article published by the American Heart Association has found it can also damage key blood vessels leading to accelerated vascular ageing.
The Link Between Sleep And Cognitive Impairment In The Elderly
As we age, our quality of sleep often deteriorates causing daytime sleepiness. This is especially common in the elderly with prevalence rates of up to 50%. The most common reason for declined sleep quality is sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), or obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – a disruption of normal breathing during sleep.
The Importance Of Getting Enough Rapid Eye Movement (REM) Sleep
Rapid eye movement sleep (or REM sleep) is a stage of sleep when your brain converts short-term memories into the long-term bank. It is the fourth stage of sleep in our sleep cycle, and is most likely occurring when you have life-like dreams where your heart rate increases, your breathing quickens and your eyelids flutter.
5 Things That May Be Ruining Your Sleep
Do you find it difficult to fall asleep at night or suffer from daytime tiredness due poor sleep? Here are some common reasons you may want to consider to help you sleep better:
10 Ways You Can Stop Snoring Recommended By Sleep Experts
Snoring is common, affecting about 57% of adult men and 40% of adult women. Although you may not think of it as a problem, snoring is often linked to health problems - such as obstructive sleep apnea - and could also be disrupting the quality of sleep of your partner. Here are 10 ways you can reduce your snoring:
8 Things To Do In The Morning After A Poor Night’s Sleep
A poor night’s sleep can easily spiral into an unproductive day. Here are 8 steps sleep experts recommend that can help you bounce back to efficiency.
Are Your Kids Getting Enough Sleep For Their Age?
Sleep is an essential part of success in the classroom - but the question of how much sleep kids need is a struggle for many parents.
How Diabetes Can Interfere With Your Sleep
Did you know that around 1.8 million Australians have diabetes? Each year, more than 100,000 Australians develop a form of diabetes – with type 2 diabetes accounting for 85%. This is of particular concern due to its association with a sleep disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
Your Immune System May Be Suffering From Poor Sleep
Have you ever found yourself getting sick after an all-nighter, or after burning the candle at both ends for too long? There’s a good reason – research shows that a lack of sleep weakens your immune system, making you more susceptible to getting sick. In fact, research even shows sleep deprivation can make vaccinations less effective, as your antibody response can be reduced by 50%.
How Your Sleep Needs Change Throughout The Decades
Age significantly affects your sleep needs. Your sleep cycles, stress levels, exercise levels and diet change throughout the years, which all impact your sleep. While sleep habits differ for everyone, sleep experts have specific recommendations for each age group.
Philips Australia - Urgent Product Defect Correction
Urgent Product Defect Correction on Specific Philips Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP), BiLevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiLevel PAP) devices, and Mechanical Ventilators
Supplements That Can Improve Your Sleep - According To Dieticians
Getting to sleep can be a major struggle if you have a sleep disorder, suffer from stress or anxiety or have a busy schedule. You may have heard time and time again that you need to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night, but are still looking for help.
The Sleep-health Inequality Between Economic And Racial Groups
Poor sleep is a widespread problem, but statistics show that some racial and socioeconomic groups are suffering more than others.
Sleep Is Essential - Why We Need Better Sleep Health Education
Sleep is essential for our health, however many of us leave our sleep problems untreated leading to physical and mental health problems. According to the Centre for Disease Control, 34.1% of children, 74.6% of high school students, and 32.5% of adults fail to get sufficient sleep on a regular basis.
Poor Sleep Quality Can Lead To Dementia And Early Death
Sleep plays a very important role for our brain health and biological repair. Unfortunately, the quality of our sleep tends to decline as we get older which can accelerate the aging process.
Common CPAP Problems And How To Fix Them
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a medical device used to treat sleep apnea by preventing the upper airways from collapsing. Although this device is highly effective, patients may encounter problems which can cause discomfort. Here are some common complications our CPAP Consultants see and how they address them:
Teens With Sleep Apnea Have Three Times The Risk Of High Blood Pressure
Top 3 Tips For Sleeping In The Winter Months
Feeling more tired than normal now that winter has hit? You’re not alone. With less sunlight during the day, our bodies produce more melatonin and less serotonin, making us sleepier. However, you may also find you are sleeping worse during winter – here are 3 tips to help improve your sleep during winter.
Philips Medical Device Recall
Philips Respironics has announced that it is initiating a voluntary recall notification for Continuous and Non-Continuous Ventilators (certain CPAP, BiLevel PAP and Ventilator Devices, including DreamStation machines and System One machines). Philips Respironics takes patient safety very seriously, and is currently engaging with Australian regulatory bodies to rectify the issues. You can view the list of impacted machines, and FAQs here: www.philips.com/SRC-update.
What Are Night Terrors, And Why Do We Have Them?
Throughout the pandemic, neurologists have observed an increase in sleep disturbances, including night terrors and night-time panic attacks. If you’ve ever seen someone suddenly wake up screaming, pale, looking like they’ve seen a ghost, you may have just seen them experience a night terror.
Going To Bed Earlier Reduces Your Risk Of Depression
A new study published in JAMA Psychiatry has found that going to sleep an hour earlier could lower your risk for major depression by 23%. The study included 840,000 people, including their genetic data, prescription records and medical history. They found that provided the amount of sleep stays the same, sleeping an hour earlier lowered your risk of depression by 23%, and sleeping two hours earlier lower your risk by around 40%.
Study shows using cpap reduces heart attack & stroke risk in sleep apnea patients
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machines are used to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) – a common sleep disorder linked to a range of health problems. Patients with OSA have a higher risk of developing heart problems, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and strokes. Thankfully, research has shown that CPAP treatment helps lower these risks by preventing apneas during sleep.
The benefits of taking an afternoon nap
Do you feel guilty when taking an afternoon snooze? Don’t. Research shows napping can benefit our cognitive function – Here’s how.
Shift Workers Are Up To 3x More Likely To Be Involved In Motor Vehicle Accidents
The traditional 9-5 work day has shifted for many people. Now, it’s common for people to work night shifts or ‘graveyard shifts’ from 11pm – 7am, which drastically increases the likelihood of crashes.
Studies Show Sleep Apnea Can Lead To Depression
If you suffer from daytime tiredness and always feel unrefreshed, you may have Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – a sleep condition which disturbs your breathing during sleep.
What Can Your Sleep Habits Tell You About Your Health?
Sleep is a basic human necessity, despite how often we push it to the side. Study after study has shown that our sleep is intrinsically linked to our overall health – here’s 5 ways your sleep habits could be affecting your health.
New Report Shows Sleep Disorders Cost The U.S. $95 Billion Annually
A new report in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine has revealed the astounding impact of sleep disorders on the U.S. Health care system. Sleep problems cost the system close to $95 billion a year, and increase health care costs by 60%. Researcher Dr. Neil Bhattacharyya says, “Our estimates are likely low, considering we know there are a large number of patients not yet diagnosed with a disorder like sleep apnea, restless legs syndrome and insomnia.”
Poor CPAP Therapy Adherence Could Increase Your BMI
For adults suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), how consistently you use your CPAP machine could have a significant effect on your weight, not just your sleep. Researchers have found that patients who used CPAP for 5 hours or less per night had an increased BMI compared to patients who used CPAP for more than 5 hours per night. You can view more details of the study here: https://bit.ly/33romtE
How Long Should It Actually Take To Fall Asleep?
Some people fall asleep instantly where as others will toss and turn for hours. The time it takes you to fall asleep is called “sleep latency.” But is there an optimal sleep latency?
Study Finds A Simple Trick That Can Improve Sleep Quality In Those Over 60
Sleeping can be a real struggle as you age, especially for those over 60 who suffer from a sleep disorder such as insomnia or sleep apnea.
Daytime Sleepiness May Be Linked To Genetic Markers For Longevity
New research suggests there may be a link between a DNA marker for longevity and excessive daytime sleepiness – a condition that affects about 20% of the population.
Frequent Sleep Disturbances Can Impact Your Health
Many people find it difficult to stay asleep during the night. You might brush it off, but studies show that frequent disruptions to sleep can seriously affect your health – particularly in women.
Is Sleeping On Your Left Side Bad For Your Heart?
Studies have shown that your sleeping position may have an impact on your health, especially those with pre-existing heart conditions.
How sleep apnea can affect your brain
Taking care of your sleep apnea also means you are taking care of your brain. Sleep apnea is a chronic sleep disorder that involves repetitive pauses in your breathing during sleep. These pauses in your breathing reduce the oxygen flow to your brain, leading to a range of health problems.
Study Shows One In Two Men In Greece Suffer From Sleep Apnea
According to the American College of Greece, approximately half of the male population have sleep apnea as opposed to one in five women.
Your Sleep Apnea May Be Affecting The Tone Of Your Emails
It is well known that sleep apnea can leave you feeling tired and grouchy due to a lack of sleep, but a recent study shows that you may also come across as a cranky employee.
Are You At Risk Of A Second Chronic Disease?
Many chronic conditions are linked to each other, which means having one increases your risk for developing another. About 85% of people ages 60 or older have at least one chronic disease, and 60% have at least two.
If You Have This Symptom At Night, You May Have Heart Disease
If you wake up during the night due to shortness of breath, your body might be telling you something about your heart.
Snoring In Children May Be Linked To Learning And Behavioural Problems
Snoring is common amongst many children, however new research has shown that it may be associated with structural changes in the brain causing behavioural and learning problems.
Driving While Fatigued Severely Increases The Risk Of Motor Vehicle Accidents
Did you know that driving while tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol?
How Bedtime Boredom Affects Your Sleep Quality
Does your mind wander and procrastinate in the late hours of the night? You may have bedtime procrastination, which significantly affects the quality of your sleep and long term health.
Snoring: What Are The Facts?
Many people snore for different reasons, so it is important to separate the myths and facts to better understand your health. Here are 5 facts you should know about snoring.
The Link Between Insomnia, Schizophrenia And Depression
Insomnia is commonly seen in those with schizophrenia. Now, a new study has shown that insomnia is closely associated with more suicidal thoughts, anxiety and depression in these patients.
Do You Have Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? Here Are Some Common Signs
Do you feel constantly tired all the time no matter how much rest you get? You might have chronic fatigue syndrome – a condition characterised by excessive tiredness for at least 6 months that can’t be explained by an underlying medical condition.
Up To 45 Fold Increases In Sleep Disorder Rates Among Us Military
During the last 14 years, there has been a dramatic increase in insomnia and obstructive sleep apnoea amongst active-duty military members. From 2005-2019, insomnia increased 45-fold, and sleep apnoea increased over 30-fold.
Sleep studies – what are they and why do I need one?
Sleep studies diagnose sleep disorders such as insomnia or sleep apnea. They are one of the best ways to identify any issues with your sleep.
Restless leg syndrome associated with increased risk of heart disease
Falling asleep can be especially difficult for insomniacs and those with physical irritation, such as restless leg syndrome. Although many will try their best to ignore it, restless leg syndrome (RLS) should be taken seriously as experts say it may be a red flag for heart disease.
Can fitness trackers detect sleep apnoea?
With so many new wearable technologies, it is easy to get access to your day-to-day health statistics – and now, fitness trackers are starting to measure your blood oxygen saturation, or SpO2, which could help detect sleep apnoea.
Want To Sleep Better? Try the 10 Commandments of Healthy Sleep
You’ve made the decision to start working on your sleep – so what now? For those looking for ways to improve their sleeping habits, start with the 10 Commandments of Sleep Hygiene. These simple steps can help you fall asleep faster, for longer, and more deeply.
Sleep Awareness Week: What 8 Hours of Sleep Can Do
It’s sleep awareness week! We all know we need sleep – but we rarely get enough of it. 7-8 hours of sleep is recommended for most adults, but many Australians are functioning on much less. For some, operating on 5-6 hours per night might even be a point of pride. But getting enough sleep is a necessity when it comes to our health. Here are just 10 things that 8 hours of sleep does for you.
The 10 Commandments of Healthy Sleep
You’ve made the decision to start working on your sleep – so what now? For those looking for ways to improve their sleeping habits, start with the 10 Commandments of Sleep Hygiene. These simple steps can help you fall asleep faster, for longer, and more deeply.
Using CPAP All Night, Every Night is Crucial for your Health - Here's Why
Upwards of 83% of patients who start CPAP therapy are non-compliant over the long term. Starting CPAP therapy is crucial – but it is just as important to make sure you keep using CPAP consistently to achieve your best health outcome.
What Can 8 Hours Sleep Do?
We know we need it – but we rarely get it. 7-8 hours of sleep is recommended for most adults, but many Australians are functioning on much less. For some, operating on 5-6 hours per night might even be a point of pride. But getting enough sleep is a necessity when it comes to our health. Here are just 10 things that 8 hours of sleep does for you.
Improve Sleep Naturally and Drug Free with an Eye Mask
Our eyes are hard at work every day. With so much of our lives now centered on screens, our eyes are working double time. This excess screen time can lead to dry eyes, double vision, headaches, concentration issues and even sleep problems. One of the best ways to reduce eye strain is with an eye mask. Here are some of the benefits.
How to Sleep During Heatwaves
Sunburnt, sweaty and…sleep deprived? Heatwaves can make it difficult to get a good night’s sleep. Our bodies need to cool down as we go to sleep, making it harder to get deep sleep during these hot summer months. So here are some tips to help you stay cool and well rested this summer.
The Link Between Sleep Apnoea and Diabetes
Sleep apnoea is more than just a snoring problem – and it can have much deeper consequences than tiredness. Did you know that diabetes, particularly Type 2 diabetes, and sleep apnoea have been strongly linked?
Study Finds CPAP Therapy Makes You More Attractive and Youthful
There are so many important reasons for treating sleep apnoea – your heart health, mental health, productivity, safety and more! But did you know that scientists have shown CPAP therapy can also make you look younger and more attractive?
How to Reset (And Keep) Your Sleep Schedule
Our sleep and routines has suffered during the pandemic. Increased anxiety, lockdowns and having to work from home has ruined many sleep schedules. But having a consistent sleep schedule is the key to getting longer, better sleep. So how can you reset your sleep schedule after so much disruption?
Sleep Deprivation May Increase Risk of Drug Abuse and Addiction
Sleep is crucial for our brains to function well. Without good sleep, we are much more at risk of making poor choices. But this goes far deeper than choosing the wrong route to work, or picking an unhealthy meal. Researchers now have evidence to show that sleep deprivation may put us at greater risk of addiction and drug abuse.
New Study Findings: Sleep Apnoea Increases Risk of Dementia
Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) affects more than just your sleep. A new study from the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease has shown a link between severe untreated OSA and dementia. Researchers found that untreated OSA patients had higher levels of beta-amyloid protein – the protein which builds up in brain arteries and increases the risk of dementia.
Sleep Deprivation Lets Negative, Intrusive Thoughts In
More than being grumpy, sleep deprivation can have serious impacts on your mental health. New research from the University of York has shown that sleep-deprived individuals struggle to suppress negative and unwanted thoughts.
Can’t Sleep Because of Restless Legs? The 5 Signs You Might Have Restless Leg Syndrome
Getting a good night’s sleep is all most of us want at the end of a tiring day. But many Australians struggle to get the sleep they need because of a persistent urge to move their legs. Here are 5 key signs of Restless Legs Syndrome (RLS)
Walking Can Help Prevent Sleep Apnea
A new study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine has shown that even a small increase in physical activity can lower the risk of developing sleep apnea.
Is Getting Less Than 7 Hours Sleep Really That Bad?
Many Australians are sleep-deprived. But does skimping on sleep have any real, long-term effects? YES. Consistently missing sleep can put you at a much higher risk for a whole host of conditions. Here are just a few.
What to Avoid Eating Before Bed to get a Good Night’s Sleep
The foods we eat before bed can have a big impact on our sleep. So, if you are struggling to get a good night’s sleep, try cutting out these foods a few hours before hitting the hay.
Think You Have Insomnia? Here are 5 Symptoms to Watch For
How do you know whether you are experiencing a bad night’s sleep, or a more serious problem of insomnia? Here are 5 symptoms to look out for.
15 Reasons to See a Sleep Specialist
Are you experiencing a problem that warrants a visit to a Sleep Specialist? Here are 15 reasons you may want to speak to a Sleep Physician.
Look After Your Heart Health...By Sleeping!
Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in Australia. So how can you make sure you’re looking after your heart health? Sleep!
CPAP Treatment Lowers Heart Disease For People With Prediabetes
A new study has shown that using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) treatment can lower the risk of heart disease in people with prediabetes.
Sleeping in Separate Beds Might be the Best Move for Your Relationship – and More Common Than You Think
Snoring, restless legs, blanket stealing and bed hogging is robbing precious hours of sleep from many Australian couples. Your romantic partner may be your favourite person to spend the day with, but still make for a terrible bedfellow. That’s why almost 1 in 5 Australian couples sleep in separate beds.
Do Weighted Blankets Really Help You Sleep?
Weighted blankets - many swear by them as the secret to beating insomnia. But how are these blankets supposed to work?
Why We Breathe Heavier and Louder in our Sleep
Getting a peaceful sleep can be difficult with the sound of heavy breathing or snoring next to you – but what is actually causing it?