US president Joe Biden has begun using a continuous positive airway pressure machine (CPAP0 as he struggles with sleep apnea, White House officials said as per news agency Reuters. "Since 2008, the president has disclosed his history with sleep apnea in thorough medical reports. He used a CPAP machine last night, which is common for people with that history," White House spokesperson Andrew Bates said.
Another White House official said that the US president had begun using the CPAP machine in recent weeks to improve his sleep quality. The clarification came after Joe Biden was seen with marks on his face indicating he had been wearing some type of wide strap. CPAP users commonly wear a mask held on by a strap.
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder. It is characterised by brief interruptions of breathing during sleep and can cause snoring and daytime fatigue. It can also lead to high blood pressure or heart problems. In the most common form of sleep apnea, throat muscles relax which result in blocking the flow of air into the lungs. Age is one of several factors that increase the risk of developing sleep apnea.
Is this worrying for Joe Biden ahead of 2024 presidential elections?
Joe Biden, 80, is the oldest person to serve as US president. His age and health have been a focus of his opponents as he seeks a second, four-year term in the 2024 election. In February, his doctor declared him healthy and “fit for duty” without mentioning sleep apnea. The doctor had then said that Joe Biden has dealt with "sinus congestion for most of his life," and that "sinus symptoms have improved after several sinus and nasal passage surgeries."
{{/usCountry}}Joe Biden, 80, is the oldest person to serve as US president. His age and health have been a focus of his opponents as he seeks a second, four-year term in the 2024 election. In February, his doctor declared him healthy and “fit for duty” without mentioning sleep apnea. The doctor had then said that Joe Biden has dealt with "sinus congestion for most of his life," and that "sinus symptoms have improved after several sinus and nasal passage surgeries."
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