The seriousness of the weekend sleep apnea is worse than on weekdays, shows studies

A new study conducted by researchers from Flinders University in Australia has revealed that obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can worsen over the weekend. The study, published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, analyzed data from over 70,000 users of a sleep monitor placed under the mattress to track OSA severity throughout the week.

The findings showed a significant increase in the severity of OSA on weekends, with symptoms being more prominent at the end of the week. The study found that the severity of OSA increased by 18% on Saturdays compared to Wednesdays, with an overall increase of 6% on weekends compared to weekdays. This increase was particularly evident in men and participants under the age of 60.

The researchers referred to this phenomenon as ‘social apnea,’ attributing it to irregular sleep patterns and social jetlag. Factors such as increased alcohol consumption, smoking, and skipping CPAP treatment can also contribute to the worsening of OSA symptoms over the weekend.

Sleep expert Wendy Troxel, PhD, emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, limiting alcohol intake, and adhering to CPAP treatment as prescribed to manage OSA effectively. She also highlighted the need for further research to better understand the underlying causes of the ‘social apnea’ phenomenon.

These findings underscore the importance of consistent sleep habits and proper OSA management to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms. By following a structured sleep routine and adhering to prescribed treatments, individuals can effectively manage OSA and improve their overall quality of life.

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