Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which the upper airways repeatedly narrow during sleep, causing breathing pauses. This leads to fragmented sleep, severe daytime sleepiness, snoring, and morning headaches. It is estimated that more than 150,000 people in Finland have sleep apnea, and many of them have not been diagnosed.

Diagnosis is made with overnight sleep recording at home or in hospital. Treatment uses a CPAP device (continuous positive airway pressure), which keeps the airways open during sleep. Mild cases can also be treated with weight loss, sleeping position changes, or a bite splint made by a dentist. Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.