‘Modern solutions to help combat sleep disorders amidst irregular work hours’

Nagpur: The prevalence of sleep-related disorders is increasing in modern lifestyles due to factors such as high stress levels, irregular sleep schedules, excessive screen time, and sedentary habits.These lifestyle changes contribute to poor sleep hygiene and an increased risk of conditions like sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome. Sleep apnea took centre stage at the National Conference on Bronchology and Interventional Pulmonology (NACONBIP-2025) that concluded on Sunday.Experts highlighted the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of sleep-related breathing disorders. The head of the pulmonary medicine department at the Super Specialty Hospital of the GMCH, Dr Sushant Meshram, who is also Organizing Chairman of NACONBIP-2025, talked about the need for greater awareness. "Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is not just about snoring; it significantly impacts overall health and quality of life. Our workshops focused on advanced diagnostics like polysomnography (PSG) and therapeutic interventions such as CPAP and BiPAP, which are crucial in managing the condition effectively," he stated.OSA is when the airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep, leading to disrupted breathing and poor sleep quality. Polysomnography (PSG) is a specialised sleep study used to diagnose OSA by monitoring brain activity, oxygen levels, and breathing patterns. Treatment options like Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) machines help keep the airway open by delivering pressurised air, preventing pauses in breathing and improving sleep quality. These interventions can significantly enhance overall health and reduce the risk of complications associated with untreated sleep apnea.The conference also highlighted the latest advancements in lung function assessment, mechanical ventilation, and interventional pulmonology. Dr Akash Balki, Organizing Secretary, noted, "These sessions provided a much-needed platform for doctors to refine their skills with cutting-edge technology and real patient cases. Hands-on training in sleep medicine and respiratory care is vital for improving patient outcomes."The three-day event, organised by the Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care & Sleep Medicine, Government Medical College, Nagpur, in collaboration with the Pulmo Alumni Association, featured prominent pulmonologists, intensivists, and researchers from across India and abroad. The scientific discussions on the second and third days of NACONBIP-2025 covered a wide array of topics. Experts discussed advancements in lung transplantation techniques and post-transplant care. HOW WORK IS AFFECTING SLEEP* Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Repeated breathing interruptions during sleep* Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep* Restless Leg Syndrome: Uncontrollable urge to move legs while resting* Circadian Rhythm Disorders: Disruptions in body's natural sleep-wake cycle* Narcolepsy: Sudden, uncontrollable episodes of sleep during the day* Shift work sleep disorder: Sleep disturbances due to irregular work hours
Stay updated with breaking news, bank holidays and upcoming public holidays in march.