Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Overview

Sleep apnea is a common sleep-related breathing disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops for ten seconds or more during sleep, causing intermittent hypoxia and fragmented sleep. Patients experience significant daytime sleepiness, and about 94.5% of cases are obstructive sleep apnea.

Symptoms

• Snoring
• Breathing pauses
• Daytime sleepiness
• Nighttime awakening with choking
• Morning headache

Treatment

Based on lifestyle changes such as weight loss, side sleeping, and quitting smoking and alcohol. Moderate to severe cases often require continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, and some may consider oral appliances or surgery.

Dietary advice

Control total calories and eat regularly to lose weight; avoid heavy dinners and avoid alcohol and sedative drinks before bed. Eat plenty of vegetables and high-quality protein.