MOAMA Village Pharmacy’s message this Men’s Health Week is, ‘Don’t Ignore the Snore’.
Snoring is one of the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea: a condition where repeated episodes of partial or complete obstruction of the throat causes breathing to reduce or stop during sleep.
Sleep apnea is more common in men than women, and becomes more common as they age.
“It can disrupt sleep, but it may have much more significant health implications,” pharmacist Clint Flanigan said.
Day-to-day effects include increased daytime fatigue, snoring, morning headaches and reduced concentration.
But obstructive sleep apnea can have a significant effect on other health conditions including increased blood pressure, increased blood sugar and worsening diabetes control, increased rate of depression and mood disorder and seven times higher likelihood of a motor vehicle accident.
It also contributes to increased rate of heart disease and stroke, and increased long-term risk of dementia.
“Many patients are doing their best to manage the symptoms of their chronic conditions during the day,” Mr Flanigan said.
“But for up to 20 per cent of the population, this condition may have an adverse effect on their daytime fatigue, headaches, diabetes control, risk of heart disease and motor vehicle accident.”
For patients who suspect they may be at risk, STOP-BANG and OSA-50 are screening tools to assess the risk of obstructive sleep apnea.
Additionally, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale will help assess your level of daytime fatigue and these resources can be accessed through Moama Village Pharmacy.
The change allowed the pharmacy to expand its range to include the brands Philips, Fisher & Paykel and Resmed, and offer fixed price CPAP hire, including all appointments, masks and tubing for $250 per month.
Moama Village Pharmacy is located at 2 Perricoota Rd, Moama. For more information call (03) 5480 9555 or visit www.moamapharmacy.com.au