A new service at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital for people with obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome has been operating for 12 months.

It has been commended for its approach by the Hospital Doctor magazine.

Victims suffer collapse of airways when they are asleep which can wake them, albeit momentarily 100 times a night.

The next day they are tired and lethargic as a result.

The hospital team has developed a sensitive mask to put over the nose and mouth of victims.

Low blood oxygen levels

A machine raises and regulates the pressure of the air they breathe, preventing the airway from collapsing during sleep.

Previously patients had to travel to Papworth Hospital in to get treatment.

Sleep apnoea affects around one in 100 people. Overweight men between the ages of 45 and 65 are most commonly affected.

The condition lowers oxygen levels in the blood and can lead to high blood pressure, weight gain, heart disease, Type 2 diabetes, and impotence.

Dr Philippe Grunstein said: ” We fought long and hard to get this kind of quality service provided in Norwich.

“This is an evidence-based and high-quality service that makes a positive impact on the patient’s life and often also that of their partner.”