What Is Sleep Apnea?
You or someone you love may be one of the 12 million Americans suffering from this common and potentially dangerous sleep disorder, but exactly what is sleep apnea?
The word apnea means "not breathing." The most common form of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea and is caused by a blockage in the airway when throat muscles relax during sleep. This airway closure occurs either behind the tongue or behind the nose. While sleeping, patients continue to make efforts to breathe. Then, after 10 or more efforts, the brain, realizing it is not getting any oxygen, actually "wakes up." The brain then tells the upper airway to open to let some air in.
Two other less common forms of sleep apnea are central sleep apnea and complex sleep apnea, also known as mixed sleep apnea.
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
The symptoms of sleep apnea generally begin with loud bothersome snoring, often described as snorting and gasping. Patients may take a few breaths of air, the brain goes to sleep again and the cycle may repeat itself several hundred times a night. Since the person is asleep, he or she may not even be aware that they are doing this. If you think you or someone you love may be suffering from this disorder, look for these additional symptoms of sleep apnea:
- Loud snoring
- Restless sleep
- Waking up with a sudden gasping or choking sensation
- Insomnia or recurrent awakenings
- Waking up with a sore or dry throat
- Morning headaches
- Mood swings
- Decreased interest in sex
The Dangers of Sleep Apnea
Patients with sleep apnea are at great risk for heart disease, heart attacks, strokes and high blood pressure. In addition, since their sleep is poor quality, patients are often sleepy during the day and find they are unable to concentrate. Those suffering from sleep apnea also have an increased risk of falling asleep while doing tasks such as driving or using heavy machinery. The good news is that sleep apnea is relatively easy to diagnose and treatable.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Methods
What is sleep apnea treatment and how can it help a person suffering from the sleep disorder?
Sleep apnea treatment involves a number of strategies, including weight management and overall physical fitness. It is highly recommended to avoid sleeping pills, alcohol and sedative medicines, as these can worsen sleep apnea symptoms. Sometimes sleeping semi-upright proves helpful. However, in most cases, additional sleep apnea treatment is required.
Turning to Sleep Centers
People experiencing sleep apnea symptoms are commonly referred to sleep centers around the country. A sleep center can identify and examine sleep apnea symptoms and determine if a person has this common and potentially devastating sleep disorder.
CPAP
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is one sleep apnea treatment sometimes used to treat patients. A mask fit over the nose, or over the nose and mouth, is pressurized slightly to hold the airway open and allow the patient to sleep normally. Fortunately, newer technology has made the masks relatively comfortable to wear.
Upper Airway Surgery
Some patients may be candidates for surgery on the upper airway. Upper airway surgery usually removes the uvula and some of the surrounding soft tissue to enlarge the air passage.
Dental Devices
In other cases of sleep apnea, a dental device designed to move the lower jaw down and outwards slightly may be worn at night.
Tracheotomy
When sleep apnea is considered to be immediately life-threatening, treatment may require an emergency tracheotomy.
The decision about which form of treatment to use should be up to the patient and his/her physician on the basis of the presented sleep apnea symptoms and the rest of the clinical data.
If you are concerned that you or someone you love may have sleep apnea, consult with your doctor or visit a sleep center for professional diagnosis and treatment.
Disclaimer: These statements and products are not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult your physician regarding any sleeping disorders.
