Sleep apnea is a fairly common condition that affects about 25 million adult men and women in the United States. It is a condition characterized by intermittent breathing during sleep, wherein an individual’s breathing stops and starts several times while sleeping. Sleep apnea is a chronic condition and has been found to have adverse effects on affected individuals in several studies. It increases the risk of developing depression, stroke, hypertension, Type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Sleep apnea has two types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). With OSA, a blockage occurs in the upper airway, reducing the flow of air. This may be the result of the narrowing of the airway, which may be due to large tonsils, obesity, or hormonal changes. CSA, on the other hand, occurs when the brain fails to send the right signals to induce breathing. Certain health conditions may cause this issue.
Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Some symptoms are difficult to detect, especially if you are sleeping alone because you may be unaware when they occur. These include:
-breathing that stops, then starts again several times
-loud snoring
-gasping for air, all while sleeping.
There are also some symptoms that you may notice, such as:
-dry mouth
-headaches, especially during the morning
-insomnia or difficulty staying sound asleep
-tiredness and sleepiness during the day
-decreased libido or sexual dysfunction
-irritability
Sleep apnea can affect children as well. It often occurs among overactive kids who often experience increasingly worsening asthma and bedwetting. As a consequence, they may feel sleepy during the day and have problems paying attention.
Risks
According to researchers, there are genetic factors that may increase your likelihood of developing OSA. CSA, however, is not genetic. Its risk factors include opioid use, high altitudes, and congestive heart failure. Ironically, some individuals may experience CSA as a result of treatment for OSA. Certain conditions may also contribute, such as body weight and fat distribution, facial anatomy, circadian rhythm, and breathing control.
Obstructive sleep apnea is also more common among men, often occurring during their young to middle adulthood. In women, OSA may develop after menopause. Men also tend to suffer from more severe symptoms. OSA also becomes more common as you age.
Among children, OSA is more likely for kids who have excessive nasal congestion, deformities of the face or skull, and some congenital disorders, such as cerebral palsy, Prader-Willi syndrome, and Down syndrome. CSA is considered very rare in children.
Finding Help
If you or someone you know suffers from Sleep Apnea Symptoms, getting the proper diagnosis is critical, especially before symptoms worsen. There are several types of doctors you can turn to for help, such as an ENT (eye, nose, and throat), a neurologist, or pulmonologist.
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