The NHS is struggling to cope with a dramatic rise in sleep disorders and, according to specialists, obesity could be to blame.
The number of people being referred for sleep problems in Scotland has risen 25 per cent over the past three years and a staggering 80 per cent of those patients are overweight.
Sleep disorder expert, Dr Tom Mackay, from the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh told the BBC he is facing a “tidal wave” of cases.
Although no statistics are available outside of Scotland, sleep experts have warned that these results are likely to reflect what's happening elsewhere in the UK.
“Over the past five to 10 years we have noticed quite a rise in the number of people being referred to us," says Mackay.
“That rise seems to be accelerating. We are now seeing 2,500 new patients each year.
“We are reaching capacity in terms of what we can cope with, and there is an undoubted link with people’s weight.”
Obesity has been found to have an impact on sleep apnoea, a condition that affects around 2 per cent of the population. The problem is linked to the shape of the throat, which can cause the sufferer to stop breathing and constantly wake up. Excess weight around a person’s neck has been found to exacerbate the condition.
What is sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea, also known as obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a condition that causes interrupted breathing during sleep as the muscles and soft tissue in the throat relax and collapse causing a blockage of the airway. This causes the sufferer to come out of deep sleep in order to restore normal breathing. This can occur more than once a minute throughout the night leading to long-term sleep deprivation.
How do I know if I have sleep apnoea?
According to the British Snoring & Sleep Apnoea Association, the following symptoms are associated with the condition:
Excessive daytime sleepiness (including falling asleep at work, in mid conversation or while driving)
- Loud snoring interrupted by pauses and gasps
- Irritability or restlessness
- Forgetfulness
- Mood swings
- Anxiety or depression
- Decreased interest in sex
Specialist sleep nurse, Beccy Mullins, recommends that if you have any of these symptoms you should visit your GP immediately.
For further information on snoring, OSA, symptoms, treatment and associated disorders, visit www.osauk.org where you will find information for both you and your doctor.