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Apnea – a disease that strikes from multiple sides

When sleep becomes a struggle for breath IImagine this: your sleep is constantly disrupted, you wake up every few hours and feel tired, irritable and without energy. You may think it’s just plain insomnia, but this can be a sign of a serious disorder, apnea. Apnea is a condition in which there is a temporary […]

When sleep becomes a struggle for breath

IImagine this: your sleep is constantly disrupted, you wake up every few hours and feel tired, irritable and without energy.
You may think it’s just plain insomnia, but this can be a sign of a serious disorder, apnea.

Apnea is a condition in which there is a temporary cessation of breathing during sleep, which can have far-reaching consequences on health and quality of life if not recognized and treated in a timely manner.

At the Lohuis Filipović Medical Group Polyclinic , top-notch diagnostics of sleep breathing disorders are carried out, which helps to clarify any suspicion and start effective treatment.

Key diagnostic test – polysomnography

The most important step in diagnosing apnea is polysomnography – a comprehensive night recording monitored by:

  • respiration
  • blood oxygen levels
  • heart rhythm
  • body movements
  • Stages of sleep

This method is the gold standard in apnea diagnostics, and at LF Medical Group it is carried out in specialized sleeping rooms under the supervision of a professional team with many years of experience.

For patients with milder symptoms, pulse oximetry is also used – a simple and quick method that measures oxygen levels in the blood during the night, often as a supplement to polysomnography.

Additional tests: spirometry and neurological analyses

For a comprehensive insight into the state of the respiratory system, spirometry is often recommended – a test that assesses lung function, i.e. how well you can inhale and exhale air.

In certain cases, neurological evaluations are also performed, especially when central apnea associated with neurological conditions or brain injuries is suspected.

The goal of such a comprehensive approach is to precisely determine the cause and severity of apnea and to develop an individual treatment plan.

Sleep center, multidisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art technology

A special pride of LF Medical Group is the Sleep Center, which brings together experts in the field of otorhinolaryngology, pulmonology, neurology and somnology.

The center is equipped with state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, including breathing and ventilation monitoring devices, such as SomnoDent and SomnoMed splints and CPAP devices offered by its sister company TradeMed – one of the leading providers of proven and reliable apnea treatment solutions.

The center’s expert team analyzes the results in detail and recommends the most appropriate form of therapy, from CPAP devices to ventilation masks and other modern approaches.

Why early diagnosis is crucial

Timely detection of apnea can literally save health and energy.
Untreated apnea is associated with an increased risk of:

  • high blood pressure and heart disease
  • Stroke
  • chronic fatigue and depression
  • reduced concentration and decreased work performance

If you notice loud snoring, sleep interruptions, morning headaches , or a constant feeling of fatigue, it’s time to react.

Learn more about the diagnosis of apnea and sleep disorders at the Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic.

Frequently asked questions about apnea

What causes sleep apnea?

The most common causes are overweight, anatomical obstructions in the airways, alcohol, smoking, and genetic predispositions.

Is snoring always a sign of apnea?

It doesn’t have to be, but loud and irregular snoring with interruptions in breathing can be a warning of obstructive sleep apnea.

What does the diagnosis of apnea look like?

Tests are carried out in a sleep center, where vital parameters are monitored during the night, and the analysis of the results allows an accurate diagnosis to be made.

Can apnea be successfully treated?

Yes. With CPAP therapy, splints and lifestyle changes, symptoms are significantly relieved, and the quality of sleep and life returns.

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Contact us – sleep peacefully, breathe freely

Quality sleep is not a luxury, but the foundation of health. If you suspect apnea, don’t wait – react in time.

Our team at Lohuis Filipović Medical Group Polyclinic will help you sleep peacefully again through precise diagnostics and targeted treatment.

📞 Call: +385 1 2444 646
📧 Send inquiry: info@lfmedicalgroup.com
📍 The Libertas Building, 5. and 6th floor, Trg Johna F. Kennedya 6b, Zagreb

➡️ Make an appointment at the sleep center and regain control of your sleep.

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