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Reporter's Sleep Study Reveals Shocking Health Crisis
24 Jan
Summary
- A reporter discovered she has sleep apnoea during a health investigation.
- Millions in the UK may suffer from undiagnosed sleep apnoea.
- Untreated sleep apnoea can lead to serious health issues like stroke.
A BBC Breakfast reporter's investigation into sleep apnoea led to a personal, shocking diagnosis. While monitoring her own sleep patterns for a report, Ruth Clegg discovered she suffers from the condition, stopping breathing nearly ten times every hour. This personal revelation underscores the widespread nature of sleep apnoea, estimated to affect millions in the UK, many of whom remain unaware of their condition.
Dr. Prina Ruparelia, a respiratory consultant, analyzed Clegg's sleep data, revealing instances where she stopped breathing for up to 30 seconds. This caused her oxygen levels to drop and heart rate to increase, all without her conscious knowledge. The diagnosis came as a significant surprise and scare to Clegg, prompting her to seek understanding from others diagnosed with the condition.
Sleep apnoea, if left untreated, poses serious health risks, including heart disease and stroke. Lifestyle changes like weight loss, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake can help some individuals. For others, the NHS provides free treatment, most commonly through a CPAP machine, which uses gentle air pressure to maintain breathing during sleep.
