‘Social apnoea’: sleep disorder could worsen at weekends, research suggests

The article discusses a sleep disorder called obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), which is characterized by pauses in breathing or partial reductions in airflow during sleep. The research suggests that lifestyle factors, such as drinking and smoking, could contribute to the increased severity of OSA, particularly on weekends. OSA is more prevalent among older people and those who are overweight or obese. The disorder occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax, causing the airways to narrow or close. This can lead to complete pauses in breathing or partial reductions in airflow. The article highlights the concept of "social apnoea," suggesting that the relaxation and indulgence associated with weekends may exacerbate the symptoms of OSA. The research indicates that the severity of the disorder could worsen during the weekends due to these lifestyle factors.
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