Sign 9: Sleep Apnea
Everyone cherishes a good night’s sleep. However, individuals with MPS often find their sleep disrupted by a condition known as sleep apnea. This condition, characterized by pauses in breathing during sleep, is a significant symptom of MPS.
Sleep apnea in MPS is usually of the obstructive type, meaning it is caused by a physical blockage in the airways. This blockage often results from the build-up of GAGs in the throat and nasal tissues. When sleep sets in, the muscles in these areas relax, causing the accumulated GAGs to obstruct the air passage.
The immediate consequence of this obstruction is snoring. But more than just a nighttime nuisance, snoring signifies that the person is struggling to breathe. In severe cases, this struggle can lead to moments when breathing stops altogether, awakening the person from their sleep.
The impact of sleep apnea stretches beyond disrupted sleep. Chronic sleep deprivation can lead to daytime fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and even mood swings. More seriously, it can increase the risk of conditions like hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Yet, with the right management, sleep apnea in MPS can be controlled. Interventions like continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy and lifestyle modifications can significantly improve sleep quality, leading to better health outcomes overall. (9)
