There’s nothing like a good night’s sleep to make you feel better after a long day.
But external factors like light and noise pollution can make it tricky to rest, especially living in a city like London. In fact, a study conducted earlier this year found that Londoners are the worst sleepers in the country.
And for some people suffering from sleep conditions like sleep apnoea, it’s not always easy getting some shut-eye.
Thankfully, there is some support in place for people who suffer from the condition, to make life a little easier.
Find out below what exactly sleep apnoea is, and the help available for those suffering.
What is sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is a condition where someone’s breathing stops and starts when they sleep.
According to the NHS, someone who suffers from the condition may snore, make gasping or snorting sounds, and wake up a lot during the night.
The following day, they may feel very tired, find it hard to concentrate, and suffer from headaches and mood swings.
What causes sleep apnoea?
Sleep apnoea is caused by the airway becoming too narrow during sleep, according to the NHS. It’s been linked to several conditions including obesity, smoking, drinking alcohol, and sleeping on your back.
It can also happen as you get older, or if you have other family members who suffer from the condition. Furthermore, it could be caused by chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
What are the long-term effects of sleep apnoea?
If you’re suffering from any sleep apnoea symptoms, it’s important to visit a doctor, as the condition can result in long-term effects if it’s left untreated.
For example, sleep apnoea can lead to high blood pressure, type two diabetes, and heart disease. It can also increase the risk of a stroke and result in mental health conditions like depression and mood changes, as well as an inability to focus.
What benefits can I claim?
If you suffer from sleep apnoea, you may be eligible to claim Personal Independence Payments (PIP).
PIP is a payment for people with “long-term physical or mental health conditions or disabilities” who face “difficulties doing certain everyday tasks or getting around because of their condition”, according to the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP).
PIP is made up of a daily living part and a mobility part, depending on what you have difficulties with. The DWP will assess how much difficulty you have with these takes to see if you’re eligible for PIP.
Who is eligible and how to claim?
To be eligible, you also need to be over the age of 16 but under the State Pension age and believe that your difficulties will last for 12 months or longer.
The amount you could receive will vary but the lower weekly rate for the daily living part is £68.10 and the higher rate is £101.75.
Meanwhile, the lower weekly rate for the mobility part is £26.90 and the higher rate is £71. PIP is paid every four weeks.
To make a claim, call the PIP new claims line on 0800 917 2222. They will send you a form that you need to return. You may then need to be assessed by a health professional who will discuss you your condition affects your day-to-day life.
