Understanding Hypopnoea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hypopnoea is a condition where a person experiences shallow or abnormal breathing during sleep. It is characterized by periods of slow or irregular breathing, often accompanied by pauses in breathing or sighing. Hypopnoea can be caused by various factors, such as obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, or other respiratory or neurological disorders.

Hypopnoea can lead to a range of symptoms, including:

1. Fatigue and lethargy due to poor sleep quality
2. Morning headaches or dry mouth
3. Difficulty concentrating or paying attention
4. Memory problems or difficulty learning new information
5. Mood changes, such as irritability or depression
6. High blood pressure or other cardiovascular problems
7. Increased risk of accidents or errors due to sleep deprivation

If you suspect that you or someone you know may be experiencing hypopnoea, it is important to seek medical attention to determine the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment. Treatment options may include lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking, or medical interventions, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or oral appliance therapy.