Sleep Disorder

What is Sleep Apnea?

While there are many types of sleep disorders, some are more serious than others. Sleep apnea fits into this category.

This occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted while they sleep. As a result, the brain, as well as the rest of the body, may not get enough oxygen.

Two Types of Sleep Apnea

There are two types of sleep apnea:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea, also known as OSA. This is the most common form of sleep apnea, caused by an airway blockage, typically when the soft tissue in the back of the throat gets in the way during sleep.
  • Central sleep apnea. This is not as common as OSA, but is just as serious. The airway is not blocked with this type. Instead, the problem comes into play because the brain does not signal the muscles to breathe due to a defect in the respiratory control center.

Are you at Risk?

Some people have a higher risk of sleep apnea than others. That being said, this can impact anybody of any age.

Here are some risk factors that increase the likelihood of dealing of facing this sleep disorder:

  • Being overweight
  • Age 40 or older
  • Being male (more common in men than women)
  • Having large tonsils
  • Having a small jaw bone
  • Having a neck size of 17 inches or more
  • A family history of sleep apnea
  • Nasal obstruction as a result of allergies, sinus problems, or another type of ailment

The Many Effects of Sleep Apnea

If sleep apnea is left untreated it can lead to other health problems, such as:

  • Stroke
  • High blood pressure
  • Diabetes
  • Heart failure
  • Depression

Along with the above, many who suffer from sleep apnea find that it leads to poor performance at work or in school.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

It is good to know that there are many treatments for sleep apnea, ranging from lifestyle changes to surgery.

Here are some of the lifestyle changes you can make to treat sleep apnea:

  • Avoid alcohol
  • Avoid the use of sleeping pills
  • Lose weight
  • Change sleeping positions
  • Stop smoking
  • Don't sleep on your back

While surgery is often times a last result, it is something your doctor may discuss with you. Procedures include:

  • Nasal surgery
  • Mandibular maxillar advancement surgery
  • Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty

One of the most common treatments for sleep apnea is the use of a continuous positive airway pressure device. Patients wear a mask over the nose and mouth while sleeping. The mask, which is hooked up to a machine that delivers air into the nose, ensures that you don’t stop breathing while sleeping. Many doctors consider this to be the most effective treatment.

If you believe sleep apnea has become a problem in your life, schedule an appointment with an experienced medical professional. With the help of a sleep test, it will not be long before you know for sure if you are suffering from this sleep disorder.