Managing Sleep Apnea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Dr.Akshay Budhraja, 3 mins read

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious medical condition where a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This disruption occurs due to either a blockage in the airway (obstructive sleep apnea) or because the brain fails to signal the muscles responsible for breathing (central sleep apnea). The result is a lack of oxygen, which activates a survival reflex, briefly waking you to resume breathing.

Causes of Sleep Apnea:

The causes of sleep apnea can vary based on the type, but some common risk factors include:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):

Excess weight: Being overweight or obese increases the likelihood of sleep apnea, as fatty tissues around the neck and throat can block the airway.

Age: Sleep apnea is more common in older adults, though it can occur at any age.

Anatomical factors: Enlarged tonsils, a thick neck, or a large tongue can contribute to airway blockage during sleep.

Family history: Genetics may play a role in the development of sleep apnea. If close family members have sleep apnea, you may be at higher risk.

Alcohol and sedatives: These substances relax the muscles of the throat, increasing the risk of airway obstruction.

Smoking: Smoking can increase inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway, leading to a higher risk of sleep apnea.

2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA):

Heart disease: Individuals with heart failure are more likely to experience central sleep apnea due to changes in the brain’s control of breathing.

Stroke: A stroke can impair brain function, leading to breathing difficulties during sleep.

Other neurological conditions: Conditions affecting the brainstem, such as Parkinson's disease, can also disrupt the normal breathing rhythm during sleep.

3. Mixed Sleep Apnea:

This type is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea and may occur when a person experiences a mix of symptoms and causes from both types.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping for air during sleep
• Dry mouth upon waking
• Morning headaches
• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
• Excessive daytime sleepiness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Irritability

Treatment:

Lifestyle Changes:

Weight loss: For individuals with obstructive sleep apnea, losing weight can help reduce the fat around the neck and throat, easing airway blockage.

Sleep position: Sleeping on your side rather than your back can help reduce the likelihood of airway obstruction.

Avoid alcohol and sedatives: These relax the muscles of the throat, increasing the risk of airway collapse.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A CPAP machine delivers a constant stream of air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep.

Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Therapy for Central Sleep Apnea: Similar to CPAP, this treatment involves use of a machine that helps regulate breathing by delivering air through a mask.

Oral Appliances: These are designed to reposition the lower jaw and tongue to help keep the airway open, particularly useful for mild obstructive sleep apnea.
Surgical Options: In severe cases or when other treatments have not worked, surgery may be necessary. This could involve removing enlarged tonsils or adenoids, repositioning the jaw, or even implanting a device to stimulate the airway muscles.

Takeaway!

At Aakash Super Speciality Hospital, our team of experts is committed to helping you manage sleep apnea and improve your overall health. We offer personalized care and a range of treatment options to address your unique needs. Don’t let sleep apnea impact your quality of life, schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward better sleep and better health.