What Is Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
We all know how vital sleep is for all of us. But for a few people out there, their sleep can be disrupted by a very serious condition called sleep apnea. Because of this condition, not only do they suffer while sleeping, but their overall lifestyle is heavily disturbed. But before we begin, what is sleep apnea? What causes sleep apnea?
We will be finding out in this blog!
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a very serious disorder in which the person’s breathing stops and starts while sleeping. The interruptions because of sleep apnea can last from a few seconds to minutes, but because of this, the person could not only experience poor sleep but they can also have serious health conditions like heart diseases, risk of heart attacks, high blood pressure and diabetes.
What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
According to the UK’s Sleep Apnea Trust, 13% of men and 6% of women between the ages of 30 and 75 have sleep apnea. There are different types of sleep apnea, which vary from person to person; however, obstructive sleep apnea is one of the most common types of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the airway at the back of the throat becomes constricted and picked during sleep; this also causes snoring because during sleep, air is prevented from passing through normally. The best immediate solution for obstructive sleep apnea is that you wake up, take deep breaths and then go back to sleep.
What Is Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)?
Central Sleep apnea is the disruption between the muscles and the brain that control breathing. Because of this, breathing becomes very shallow, and the person might experience temporary pauses during sleep. In this condition, the brain doesn’t send signals to the muscles that control breathing.
What Is Inspire Sleep Apnea?
Inspire sleep apnea is a treatment for obstructive sleep apnea that is used for obstructive sleep apnea. In this treatment, a device is used that helps open up airways while sleeping. In this treatment, the device is surgically implanted under the skin and it is activated at bedtime using a remote.
Sleep Apnea may lead to anxiety. Learn how to manage anxiety.
Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea?
Frequent symptoms for sleep apnea are as follows:
- Sleeping during daytime
- Loud snoring
- Gasping for air during sleep
- Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
- Dry mouth once you wake up
- The constant need to get up during sleep so that you can urinate
- Irritation and frustration
- Excessive mood swings due to disturbed sleep and sometimes no sleep
- Reduced focus ‘
- Morning headaches and migraines
These symptoms are often observed by the people next to you.
What Causes Sleep Apnea?
There are many causes of sleep apnea, but these are some of the most common causes of this serious disorder:
- Airflow blockage in your upper airway during your sleep
- The difficulty your brain has trying to regulate your breathing
- Excessive weight
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol
- Age, especially common in older people
- More common in heart disorders and stroke
How To Cure Sleep Apnea?
There are many ways in which sleep apnea can be cured. Here are some of the various approaches in which this condition can be treated:
1. Lifestyle Changes
The number one change that you need to make is in your lifestyle, which means that you should try following a healthy regimen and routine. If you are overweight, then try losing weight. Because of weight loss, you can significantly improve your quality of sleep. Also, when sleeping, try to avoid sleeping on your back, which can block your airways. Another big lifestyle change is avoiding drinking alcohol and the use of sedatives and drugs. Furthermore, try incorporating regular exercise and physical activity so that it can improve your overall lifestyle.
2. Medical Treatments
Some medical treatments are commonly used, and these include CPAP therapy, which delivers a steady stream of air to help keep the airway open. Furthermore, the use of oral appliances also helps by repositioning the jaw and tongue.
3. Surgical Treatments
A lot of times, even large tonsils can also block your airways, which can make breathing very difficult. Furthermore, correcting nasal obstructions can also make breathing better.
Pro-Tip: If you ever notice your friend or loved one experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, then it’s always best to go for a routine checkup. Not only will they help you with the diagnosis or treatment, but they can also help you prevent future complications.
Conclusion
Knowing what is sleep apnea will help you understand why you can’t sleep normally at night. Remember, before you move on to medications and other surgical treatments, make sure that you first change your lifestyle and bring changes in your life first. Also, if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, then it’s always better to go for a checkup, as early diagnosis is better to prevent complications in the future.
