Sleep apneas

Sleep apneas

The sleep apnea syndrome ("SAS"), or more precisely apnea-hyperpnoea sleep ("OSA") is a sleep disorder characterized by an interruption of respiratory flow (apnea) or a reduction in the flow (hyperpnoea). There are various effects but these can be classified into two categories :

  • They can be obstructive and associated with obesity or metabolism problems: it is then a question of "obstructive sleep apnea". An apnea is called "obstructive" when resulting from respiratory efforts against an obstruction of the upper airways (nose, mouth, pharynx, and larynx).
  • They can also be neurological abnormality in the control of breathing and there is therefore no struggle in inspiration as in the previous case. There is talk of "central sleep apnea." 

This syndrome affects the quality of life not only people who are affected, but also those around them: In fact, apneas by degrading sleep quality (decreased deep and paradoxal sleep, micro-awakening moments) cause the appearance of excessive daytime sleepiness associated with irritability, reduced libido, or depression. On the other hand, apnea decreases the partial pressure of oxygen in the blood and cause oxygen desaturation. Chronic hypoxemia is responsible for high blood pressure and occurrence of other cardiovascular disorders. Long ignored, the SAS, in its most common form ("OSA"), was described in 1956 under the name "Pickwick syndrome. Source wikipedia

Didgeridoo and sleep apnea :

The study conducted in Zurich showed that regular practice of the didgeridoo (20 minutes a day) decreased obstructive sleep apnea. In 2009 and 2010, Gauthier Aubé worked with Dr. Kabeya and ABIR (Burgundy Association of Respiratory Insufficiency) to teach didgeridoo people suffering from obstructive sleep apnea. Two students have practiced continuous and regular basis. This practice has confirmed the results of the Zurich study.