Have you ever noticed how troublesome it is to wake up after a night of insufficient sleep? This is because sleep enables us to recharge and rejuvenate our bodies and minds. Two prevalent sleep disorders, sleep apnoea and insomnia, can significantly impact the quality and quantity of our sleep. While both share the common goal of disrupting our rest, they differ in their symptoms and underlying causes.
Dr Viswesvaran Balasubramanian, Consultant Interventional Pulmonology and Sleep Medicine, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad, explained the difference between sleep apnoea and insomnia and preventive tips to avoid these sleep disorders.
What is Insomnia
Dr Balasubramanian said that insomnia is a sleep disorder characterised by difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. People with insomnia may also wake up early in the morning and be unable to fall back asleep. It can be caused by several factors, such as stress, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, and certain medications. According to the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, chronic insomnia is highly prevalent and affects approximately 30% of the general population.
Symptoms Of Insomnia
The symptoms of insomnia and sleep apnea can overlap, but there are some key differences. Dr Balasubramanian said that people with insomnia may experience the following:
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Difficulty staying asleep
- Getting awake early in the morning and being unable to sleep again
- Feeling tired during the day
- Irritability
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
What Is Sleep Apnoea
Dr Balasubramanian that sleep apnoea is a sleep disorder characterised by pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses might be as short as a few seconds or as long as a minute. They can happen dozens or even hundreds of times per night. It can be caused by many factors, like obesity, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, a narrow airway, and certain medical conditions. According to a study published by the European Respiratory Society (ERS), people with obstructive sleep apnoea have a higher risk of cancer.
Symptoms Of Sleep Apnoea
Dr Balasubramanian said that people with sleep apnoea may experience the following conditions:
- Snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Having a dry mouth or painful throat when you wake up
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Memory problems
What Is The Treatment
There are several different treatments available for insomnia and sleep apnoea. The most appropriate treatment for you will be determined by the severity of your ailment and the underlying reason.
How To Treat Insomnia
Dr Balasubramanian said that the treatments for insomnia may include:
- Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
- Relaxation techniques
- Sleep hygiene practices
- Medications
How To Treat Sleep Apnoea
Treatments for sleep apnoea may include:
- Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy
- Oral appliances
- Surgery
Complications Of Sleep Apnoea and Insomnia
Dr Balasubramanian said that both insomnia and sleep apnoea can have many serious complications, including:
- Increased risk of heart disease
- Increased risk of stroke
- Increased risk of diabetes
- Increased risk of dementia
- Increased risk of accidents
- Decreased quality of life
How To Prevent Sleep Apnoea and Insomnia
There are several things you can do to help prevent insomnia and sleep apnoea, including:
- Maintaining a regular sleep schedule
- Creating a relaxing bedtime routine
- Avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed
- Exercising regularly
- Lose weight if you are obese
- Treating any underlying medical conditions
Bottomline
If you experience the symptoms of insomnia or sleep apnoea, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. Both conditions can have a significant impact on your quality of life, but with proper treatment, you can get the restful sleep you need.
Disclaimer
This article contains information provided by a registered healthcare expert. However, we recommend that you visit your doctor for a treatment plan depending on your body type and medical history.