Sleep apnoea is a condition in which a person stops breathing for 10 seconds or more, multiple times during their sleep. In some people, it can happen 30 times or more every hour and they may not even be aware of it! All this oxygen deprivation puts a heavy strain on the body, causing a sufferer to feel tired, worn out and lethargic ... every day! If untreated, it can lead to significant health issues.
More common than you might think, sleep apnoea affects around 30% of men and 20% of women in Australia.
Typical symptoms of sleep apnoea
- Morning headaches
- Loud snoring/gasping
- Dry or sore throat every morning
- Momentary waking with a gasping or choking sensation
- Fatigue and sleepiness during waking hours
- Sleepiness while driving
- Insomnia
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings
- Lack of interest in sex
If you think you or your sleeping partner may have sleep apnoea, ask your GP to refer you to a sleep disorder centre. You will spend an overnight stay under observation where your sleep health will be monitored and evaluated before a diagnosis is made. Some centres allow you to remain at home and use the monitoring equipment there.
Aromatherapy and the CPAP user
For those who use CPAP therapy, aromatherapy oils should not be used inside the machine, even if it has a humidifier. You may be able to position a cotton wool ball with a few drops of The Australian Sleep Co. Ultimate Sleep Blend Essential Oil on near the air inlet on the back of your machine. Check with your CPAP provider. Otherwise, you can rub a little Sleep Night Oil for Pulse Points on the soles of your feet. The camellia oil in this product is a 'carrier oil' which means it transports the benefits of the sleep oils through your body, even if you can't smell them.
Our oils are helpful to sleep apnoea sufferers who may still experience night waking, insomnia or a busy mind when trying to sleep. Just because you wear a CPAP mask, doesn't mean you have to miss out on their beautiful, relaxing benefits.
