What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 times or more per hour.
Types of Sleep Apnea
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Most common type, caused by blocked airway
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Central Sleep Apnea: Brain doesn't send proper signals to breathing muscles
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Complex Sleep Apnea: Combination of both types
Common Symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
- Gasping for air while sleeping
- Morning headaches
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
Risk Factors
- Excess weight
- Neck circumference >17 inches (men) or >16 inches (women)
- Family history
- Age (risk increases with age)
- Male gender
- Use of alcohol or sedatives
- Smoking
- Nasal congestion
Diagnosis
Initial Assessment
- Medical history review
- Physical examination
- Sleep study (polysomnography)
Sleep Study Measurements
- Brain activity
- Eye movements
- Heart rate and blood pressure
- Blood oxygen levels
- Breathing patterns
Treatment Options
Lifestyle Changes
- Weight loss
- Regular exercise
- Side-sleeping position
- Avoiding alcohol and sedatives
Medical Devices
-
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
- Most common treatment
- Delivers air pressure through mask
- Keeps upper airway passages open
-
Other Devices
- Oral appliances
- Bilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation
Surgical Options
- Tissue removal
- Jaw repositioning
- Implants
- Tracheostomy (rare cases)
Complications if Untreated
- High blood pressure
- Heart problems
- Type 2 diabetes
- Liver problems
- Sleep-deprived partners
When to See a Doctor
- Loud snoring disrupting sleep
- Waking up gasping for air
- Observed breathing pauses during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
Living with Sleep Apnea
- Follow treatment plan consistently
- Maintain regular sleep schedule
- Keep healthy lifestyle habits
- Regular medical follow-up
- Monitor symptoms
Prevention Strategies
- Maintain healthy weight
- Regular exercise
- Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol
- Establish good sleep hygiene
- Regular medical check-ups