Sleep Apnea

Guide Note

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that occurs when a persons breathing is interrupted during sleep. Pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to several minutes. There are three types of sleep apnea. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the throat muscles relax. Central sleep apnea is when the brain doesn't send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Mixed sleep apnea is a combination of the two. People who have sleep apnea usually don't know they have it because it occurs when they are sleeping so it goes undiagnosed.

Some symptoms of sleep apnea would be excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, abrupt awakenings with shortness of breath, awakening with dry mouth or sore throat. You might also wake with a mild headache or have difficulty staying asleep.

In many cases some lifestyle changes will be an effective way to deal with sleep apnea. Some of these changes would be to quit smoking, avoid alcohol and medications that make you sleepy and lose weight. Also sleeping on your side or stomach rather than your back can be helpful. Using a saline nasal spray to keep your nasal passages open at night can help sleep apnea.

Fast Facts

1. Apnea in Greek means without breath
2. Disrupts sleep 3 or more times a week
3. Some treatments include: lifestyle changes, breathing devices, mouthpieces and surgery
4. Some complications include: Cardiovascular problems, daytime fatigue, sleep deprived partners
5. Affects 12 million Americans
6. Left untreated can cause high blood pressure
7. Can affect any age

Disclaimer

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you think you have Sleep Apnea, please consult your doctor.