Sleep Apnea: The Basics
posted by Internal Medicine | May 31, 2017
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder wherein breathing repeatedly stops and starts while sleeping. It can cause people to snore loudly, and they often feel tired even after a full night of sleep.
What are the types of sleep apnea, and how can it be combatted?
There are three common types of sleep apnea:
Because symptoms of the types of sleep apnea overlap, determining which type of sleep apnea you have can be difficult. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
If snoring is loud enough to disturb others or yourself while sleeping, if you frequently wake up gasping for air, or if you’re constantly tired during the day, it could be time to see your doctor for a diagnosis about your specific condition.
Sleep apnea is a serious medical issue. It can come with complications including:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea:
Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by the throat muscles relaxing, narrowing or closing the airway as you breathe in. This can lower oxygen levels in blood. The brain recognizes the airway closing, and briefly awakens you so you can reopen the airway. This is often what causes snorting, choking or gasping. Risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea include:
Central Sleep Apnea:
Central sleep apnea is caused by a failure of the brain to transmit signals to breathing muscles during sleep. Risk factors for central sleep apnea include:
For milder cases of sleep apnea, your doctor might recommend basic lifestyle changes or home remedies like weight loss, quitting smoking or treatment for allergies.’
Obstructive Sleep Apnea:
There are a few therapies that might be useful in combatting obstructive sleep apnea.
There are also several surgeries that might be effective for obstructive sleep apnea, usually only an option after other forms of treatment have not worked.
Central Sleep Apnea:
Therapies for central sleep apnea include:
If you are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, speak to your doctor about your treatment options.
“Sleep Apnea.” WebMD. http://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/sleep-apnea
“Sleep apnea.” The Mayo Clinic. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sleep-apnea/basics/definition/con-20020286
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. You should always consult your doctor before making decisions about your health.