Sleep health and snoring in Serangoon Garden
Loud snoring, waking up tired, or struggling to fall or stay asleep? Our doctors at Ashford Medical Centre can find out what is behind it, arrange a home sleep test for sleep apnoea, and help you get better rest.
Book on WhatsAppCall 6288 2789Signs your sleep needs checking
- Loud, frequent snoring
- Someone has noticed you stop breathing in your sleep
- Waking up gasping or choking
- Feeling tired even after a full night's sleep
- Dozing off during the day or while driving
- Morning headaches or a dry mouth
- Waking often at night to pass urine
- Poor concentration, memory or mood
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- High blood pressure that is hard to control
Obstructive sleep apnoea
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) happens when your airway repeatedly narrows or closes during sleep, causing breathing to pause and your sleep to be disrupted many times a night, often without you knowing. It is common, especially in people who snore loudly, are overweight or have a large neck size, but many people with OSA have never been diagnosed.
Untreated sleep apnoea is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, low mood and a higher risk of accidents from daytime sleepiness. The good news is that it can be diagnosed with a simple test at home and treated effectively.
Home sleep test with WatchPAT
We use the WatchPAT home sleep test, so you can be tested in your own bed instead of staying overnight in a sleep lab.
Consultation
Our doctor asks about your sleep, snoring and daytime tiredness, checks your blood pressure, weight and neck size, and decides whether a sleep test is right for you.
Sleep at home for one night
You take the device home and wear it for one night: a small sensor on your finger and a small sensor on your chest, linked to an app on your phone. There are no wires around your head.
Your report
The data is sent automatically after the test and analysed to show whether you have sleep apnoea and how severe it is.
Results and next steps
Our doctor goes through your results with you and agrees a treatment plan, including a referral to a sleep or ENT specialist if needed.
Treatment options
Lifestyle changes
Weight loss, cutting down alcohol in the evening, stopping smoking and changing sleep position can all reduce snoring and apnoea. See our medical weight management programme.
CPAP therapy
A small machine that keeps your airway open with gentle air pressure while you sleep. It is the most common treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnoea.
Oral devices
A custom mouthguard that holds your lower jaw forward can help some people with mild to moderate sleep apnoea or snoring.
Specialist referral
Where needed, we refer you to a sleep physician or ENT surgeon for further assessment or treatment.
Insomnia and poor sleep
Not every sleep problem is sleep apnoea. Trouble falling asleep, waking too early or never feeling rested can be linked to stress, low mood or anxiety, pain, medicines, caffeine and alcohol, shift work, screen use, or medical conditions such as thyroid problems. Our doctor will look for the cause and help you with practical changes to your sleep habits, which are the first and most effective step for most people. Sleep medicines are only used when appropriate and for short periods.
Sleep and long-term health
Good sleep supports your heart, blood sugar, weight, mood, memory and immune system. That is why sleep is a key part of our longevity medicine service.
Dr Namthep Sachathep (Dr Nam)
Clinical Director at Ashford Medical Centre. Sleep health is one of Dr Nam's special interests, along with longevity medicine, sports and injury, and gut health.
Sleep health FAQs
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book a consultation with our doctor directly on WhatsApp or by phone.
Is a home sleep test as good as a sleep lab?
For many adults with suspected obstructive sleep apnoea, a home test is a convenient and reliable first step. Some people, such as those with certain heart, lung or neurological conditions, need a full overnight study in a sleep lab, and our doctor will refer you if so.
Do I have to return the device?
No. The WatchPAT device is single-use and disposable, so there is nothing to bring back. Our team will show you how to set up the app on your phone before bed.
My partner says I snore. Does that mean I have sleep apnoea?
Not necessarily. Many people snore without having sleep apnoea, but loud snoring with pauses in breathing, gasping or daytime sleepiness should be checked.
Is the test suitable for children?
Our home sleep test is for adults. If you are worried about your child's snoring or sleep, our doctor can assess them and advise on the next steps.
If you often feel sleepy while driving, please do not drive until you have been assessed.
