Weekend Woes: How ‘Social Apnoea’ Could Worsen Your Sleep Health

"Weekend Woes: Is 'Social Apnoea' Hurting Your Sleep?"

Weekend activities like increased drinking and smoking may worsen obstructive sleep apnoea severity, leading researchers to label this trend as "social apnoea."

Dr. Sarah Kim13 August 2025Last Update : 15 hours ago

‘Social apnoea’: sleep disorder could worsen at weekends, research suggests | Sleep apnoea

www.theguardian.com

Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a common yet serious sleep disorder that can worsen over the weekend, according to recent research. A study published on 2025-08-13 17:00:00 highlights how lifestyle choices, such as increased drinking and smoking, may contribute to this phenomenon.

6 Key Takeaways

Weekend drinking worsens sleep apnoea severity.
Obstructive sleep apnoea affects breathing during sleep.
Study identifies "social apnoea" phenomenon.
Increased odds of OSA on weekends noted.
Lifestyle factors influence sleep apnoea symptoms.
Addressing smoking and drinking is crucial.

Researchers found that the severity of OSA symptoms significantly increased on Saturdays compared to weekdays. This uptick may be linked to irregular sleep patterns and reduced use of treatment devices, leading to what has been termed “social apnoea.”

Fast Answer: Weekend habits like drinking and smoking can exacerbate obstructive sleep apnoea, increasing health risks and reducing quality of life.

This study raises an important question: how do our weekend habits affect our overall health? The findings suggest that lifestyle choices play a crucial role in managing OSA symptoms. Here are some recommendations to consider:

Limit alcohol and smoking, especially on weekends.
Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, even on days off.
Utilize CPAP machines regularly to manage OSA effectively.

Increased severity of OSA can lead to serious health issues, including stroke and high blood pressure. Awareness and lifestyle changes are crucial.

As we move forward, it’s essential to prioritize healthy habits throughout the week. By making conscious choices, we can mitigate the risks associated with obstructive sleep apnoea and improve our overall well-being.