Do you have obstructive sleep apnoea, or use CPAP?

Understanding Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) and the Role of CPAP: A Guide for Patients

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea (OSA) is a common but often under-recognised condition where the airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep. This causes breathing to stop and start, often leading to loud snoring, restless sleep, and excessive tiredness during the day. Over time, untreated OSA can increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and complications with anaesthesia.

Why OSA Matters in Anaesthesia

As an anaesthetist, I pay close attention to patients with OSA because sedation and anaesthesia can affect sleep patterns for 24-48 hours after an operation, during which symptoms of sleep apnoea can be worse than normal.

What is CPAP and How Does It Help?

CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. It’s a simple yet highly effective treatment for OSA. The machine gently delivers air through a mask to keep your airway open while you sleep. Many patients notice improved sleep quality, better mood, and reduced daytime tiredness after starting CPAP.

From an anaesthetic perspective, regular CPAP use before surgery reduces the risks associated with OSA. It helps keep your oxygen levels stable and makes your recovery safer and smoother.

What Should You Do Before Surgery?

If you have OSA — or suspect you might — let your surgical team know well in advance. If you're not yet diagnosed but experience symptoms like loud snoring, gasping in sleep, or feeling exhausted despite a full night’s sleep, talk to your GP. A sleep study can confirm the diagnosis and guide treatment.

If you have a CPAP machine, ensure to use it regularly in the days leading up to your procedure, and bring it to hospital with you.

Bottom Line:

CPAP is more than just a sleep aid — it’s a powerful tool to protect your long-term health and improve your safety during surgery. If you have OSA, use your CPAP regularly and always inform your healthcare team before any procedure.

Dr. Ben Hew

MBBS, FANZCA

Specialist Anaesthetist