David Licauco might need operation due to sleep apnea
Kapuso actor David Licauco in a Feb. 4 interview revealed that he might need to undergo an operation due to his sleep apnea.
This serious sleep disorder causes David to stop breathing while asleep.
"It's scary. It's scary talaga 'yung sleep apnea... Basically my breathing stops about 30 seconds straight, about 24 times in an hour, when I'm sleeping," David said.
The "Pambansang Ginoo" said it's even possible that he would need to undergo a medical operation due to this.
"I'll probably get an operation soon, because hirap na hirap na ako," David said.
Moreover, he added that the condition affects his mood and work performance. Consequently, he needs to warm up longer than others in order to function daily.
David's fans have since shared their messages of support for the Maria Clara at Ibarra actor.
"Our Ginoong Fidel shares his struggles as he is battling with sleep apnea. We are praying for your recovery, David. Your health is your main priority," one fan commented on his interview video.
What is sleep apnea?
According to the United Kingdom National Health Service (NHS), symptoms of sleep apnea include breathing stopping and starting, making gasping/snorting/choking noises, waking up a lot, and loud snoring.
"Sleep apnea needs to be treated because it can lead to more serious problems," the NHS wrote on its website listing the following as examples: high blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, depression or mood changes, motor vehicle collisions, and work-related injuries.
Treatments can include lifestyle changes, a CPAP machine, a mandibular advancement device, and even surgery.
The United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said that snoring "may be more than just an annoying habit – it may be a sign of sleep apnea."
Additionally, people with the condition characteristically make periodic gasping or snorting noises during which their sleep is momentarily interrupted.
"Treatment of sleep apnea is dependent on its cause... As interruption of regular breathing or obstruction of the airway during sleep can pose serious health complications, symptoms of sleep apnea should be taken seriously. Treatment should be sought from a healthcare provider," the CDC wrote on its website.