Do You Have Obstructive Sleep Apnoea?

Symptoms in Adults:

• Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon awakening
• Headaches in the morning
• Trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, depression or irritability
• Restlessness during sleep
• Sexual dysfunction
• Snoring
• Sudden awakenings with a sensation of gasping or choking
• Difficulty getting up in the morning

Symptoms in Children:

• Bedwetting
• Choking or drooling
• Inward movement of the ribcage when inhaling
• Learning and behavioural disorders
• Poor school performance
• Sluggishness or sleepiness (often misinterpreted as laziness in the classroom)
• Snoring
• Teeth grinding
• Restlessness in bed
• Pauses in breathing
• Unusual sleeping positions such as sleeping on the hands and knees, or with the neck hyperextended

Doctor’s note: Symptoms are less obvious in children and require careful observation. Parents should consult a sleep specialist if they suspect that their child has Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

Article contributed by Dr Jim Teo, an accredited doctor of Mount Alvernia Hospital.

Note : Please note that health information is provided to supplement the care provided by your doctor. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice.   Always seek the advice of your physician if you have any questions regarding a medical condition.