About Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is acommon and very serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing throughout the sleep cycle. These interruptions, called apneas, are caused by the collapse of soft tissue in the airway, which prevents oxygen from reaching the lungs.
Sleep apnea disrupts the sleep cycle and can dramatically impact energy, mental performance and long-term health. It's important not to ignore potentially dangerous symptoms, such as snoring and excessive daytime sleepiness, and to consult a sleep specialist. Treatment can help you get the kind of sleep you need to help you feel more like yourself every day.
What happens when you have sleep apnea????
1) Air stops flowing
Anapnea eventis when air stops flowing to your lungs for ten seconds or longer, meaning you stop breathing.
2) Brain sends a signal
Your brain sends a signal to your body to wake up and take a breath. You take a breath and fall back to sleep.
3) Cycle repeats
These apnea events can occur hundreds of times a night and many people with sleep apnea don’t know it's happening.
Types of sleep apnea:
There are three types of sleep apnea:
• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA),
• Central sleep apnea (CSA)
• Mixed sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea accounts for 84% of sleep apnea diagnoses.
Risk factors of having sleep apnea?
Ifs important to remember anyone can have sleep apnea - men, women and children. It is typically associated with:
• A narrow throat airway
• Overweight/obese
• Family history of sleep apnea
• Increasing age
How do I know if I have sleep apnea:
A sleep test performed by medical professionals is the best way to diagnose sleep apnea. The most common sign of sleep apnea is snoring. Depending on the type of sleep apnea you have, other symptoms can include:
• Being told you stop breathing during sleep
• Excessive daytime tiredness or fatigue
• Morning headaches
• High blood pressure
Is sleep apnea dangerous? Can I die from sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is very serious and can lead to short- and long-term health conditions if left untreated. These health conditions include:
• High blood pressure
• Heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Hypertension
• Stroke
• Obesity/Overweight
Benefits of sleep apnea treatment and CPAP/BiPAP therapy
Effective sleep apnea therapy, which includes the use of CPAP/BiPAP equipment, life style modifications have been shown better blood pressure control, blood sugar level control, energy levels, productivity and overall mind-body wellness.
It's important to remember that if left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to other serious health issues and even death.