Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes an individual to stop breathing for short periods of time while they are asleep. The most common type of sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open.
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This article is for information only and not for treatment.
If you have any medical problem, consult a good doctor.
If you follow these medical advices, do so at your own risk.
Symptoms of sleep apnea include:
Loud snoring: The sound of snoring is caused by the vibration of the airway as a person breathes.
Gasping or choking: These sounds occur when the airway becomes blocked, causing the person to wake up briefly to open the airway.
Pauses in breathing: These pauses can last for several seconds to minutes and can occur several times an hour.
Daytime fatigue: People with sleep apnea often feel sleepy during the day, have difficulty staying awake, and have trouble concentrating.
Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep is common in people with sleep apnea.
Morning headache: Many people with sleep apnea wake up with a headache due to lack of oxygen during the night.
Treatments for sleep apnea include:
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP): This treatment involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth to deliver a steady stream of air to help keep the airway open.
Oral appliances: These devices are worn in the mouth to help keep the airway open.
Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, avoiding alcohol and sleeping on your side can help to reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove excess tissue from the airway.
Behavioral therapy: This can include cognitive behavioral therapy, biofeedback and relaxation techniques to help improve sleep quality and reduce symptoms of sleep apnea
It's important to seek medical attention if you suspect you have sleep apnea. This condition can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, stroke, and heart failure if left untreated. A sleep study can help to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment.
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