What is sleep apnoea?

Sleep apnoea is a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep, often associated with a drop in oxygen levels during sleep, and an awakening that is so brief, that many would not be aware of it. Nevertheless this causes unhealthy fragmentation of sleep, and may cause you to wake up feeling unrefreshed, have low energy levels during the day, and sometimes dose off unintentionally. Contrary to popular belief, many patients with severe sleep apnoea feel they sleep well at night.

Why take our online sleep test?

The questions on the online sleep test will tell you whether you have a high probability of having obstructive sleep apnoea, and whether you qualify for a bulk billed sleep study. (Referral needs to be signed by GP).

Where is the sleep study conducted?

Breathe Well offers home and in lab sleep studies in Brisbane. You can collect the machine from one of our centres, or a mobile delivery service can be arranged (fees apply). With our mobile service you can also have a sleep technician come and set the equipment up for the night in the comfort of your own home.

If I am diagnosed with sleep apnoea, what is the next step?

If you have sleep apnoea, recommendations are made on the sleep report. A sleep physician consultation will be offered if deemed necessary to discuss all treatment options available. Our point of difference is that the service is run by independent sleep physicians, with no affiliation to CPAP providers or CPAP sales.

What happens if I have sleep apnoea and do nothing about it?

It is always advisable that you discuss the results with your doctor. The more severe the sleep apnoea the greater the risks to your health. Sleep apnoea has been associated with:

• heart disease including heart rhythm problems such as atrial fibrillation, heart failure and heart attacks
• high blood pressure
• stroke
• memory problems
• depression
• low testosterone
• reduced libido
• diabetes
• tooth grinding
• reflux
• chronic cough
• frequent urination at night
• kidney disease
• abnormal behaviour during sleep such as nightmares, sleep walking, dream enactment
• worsening of asthma
• fatigue
• obesity

It is always advisable to treat severe sleep apnoea because of associated risks. If you have one or more of the above problems, sleep apnoea of any severity may be worth treating. Sleep apnoea in pregnancy should always be treated because of worse foetal outcomes.