Sleep apnea is a medical condition where the airway becomes blocked during sleep. It is caused by soft tissue collapsing in the back of the throat, which blocks the airway. Central sleep apnea is characterised by a collapse of the throat and tonsils. It is often a result of neurological disorders such as heart failure and may lead to cognitive impairment.
People with sleep apnea are at a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome – a group of conditions that include high blood pressure, a large waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Additionally, those who suffer from this disorder can have problems taking certain medications and may experience breathing difficulties following major surgery. This condition may also lead to liver scarring. This article explores the symptoms of this sleep disorder.
The Different Types Of Sleep Apnea: Explained
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
This is the most common form of sleep apnea. There are several obstructive sleep apnea symptoms. While the disorder can occur independently, it can also be a sign of another disorder. Polycystic ovarian syndrome and mucopolysaccharidosis type I are two examples. If you suspect that you have the condition, you should see your doctor. There are also other symptoms you might be experiencing.
Central Sleep Apnea
CSA is a condition where a person’s breathing stops and starts during sleep. Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, central apnea is not caused by an obstruction in the upper airway. This disorder is uncommon but can be a symptom of heart failure or a stroke. It can also be caused by sleeping in high altitudes. Although there is no cure for central apnea, devices can treat it.
Complex Sleep Apnea
The complex sleep apnea syndrome is often difficult to assess. While many sleep apnea causes are, a single underlying cause is a primary concern. However, research continues to identify risk factors for complex sleep apnea. A breathing assistance machine may be necessary, but the additional investigation may require.
What Are The Symptoms Of Sleep Apnea
These muscles are part of the soft palate, uvula, tonsils, tongue, and throat. As the muscles relax, the airway becomes narrow, and the person cannot breathe properly. The result is that carbon dioxide is built up, and the body experiences a pause in breathing for about 10 seconds. During this time, the brain wakes up briefly to open the airway, but the resulting disruption in breathing causes a build-up of carbon dioxide.
Sleeping More During The Day
The most common symptom of sleep apnea is excessive daytime sleepiness. The symptoms of this disorder may not be noticeable. However, those with a family history of apnea should visit their doctor to discuss the problem. A physician can help identify the underlying cause of apnea and recommend the most appropriate treatment. While there is no cure for apnea, lifestyle changes can reduce the severity of symptoms. These changes include quitting alcohol and smoking, relaxing the throat muscles, and causing the airway to collapse. Patients who cannot quit these habits can use decongestants to open the airway during sleep. Cognitive-behavioural therapy is another option for treating apnea and maintaining a proper sleep schedule.
Feeling Drowsy
Obstructive sleep apnea may be the most common symptom. The most common symptom of obstructive sleep apnea is excessive daytime drowsiness. Some people experience apnea only while they sleep on their backs. Some individuals have a deviated septum, a large tonsil, or other anatomical abnormalities that block the airway.
Snoring
Snoring that disrupts the sleep of others is a symptom of central apnea. They may also experience difficulty breathing, including a choking sensation upon awakening. A lack of sleep can affect a person’s ability to learn and drive. Those who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea may require a sleep study. This will also affect your relationship with your partner.
Reduced Immunity And Fatigueness
When you don’t get enough rest, your body is less able to repair itself. Its impact on your ability to work can be severe. You may become less productive if you are not getting enough rest. If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, you’ll likely experience fatigue and a reduced immune system. You’ll also be more susceptible to colds and other respiratory ailments.
The Complications That You Can Face In Sleep Apnea
Blocked Airways
The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive, where the airway repeatedly becomes blocked during sleep. When this happens, the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses, and the diaphragm works much harder than normal to open it. People with this disorder often experience loud gasps during sleep and may experience a decreased amount of oxygen in the body’s organs. Severe OSA can result in abnormal heart rhythms, a risk that can cause fatal heart problems.
Cardiovascular Disease
If you are a patient with sleep apnea, you should know that you’re at high risk for cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure. Besides the above, a lack of sleep can harm a person’s body systems. Those with OSA may experience difficulty exercising and rely on stimulants to stay awake. In addition, the onset of these symptoms can increase a person’s risk of developing Type 2 diabetes, a common condition among those with the disorder.
Heart Disease And Diabetes
While many complications are not serious, they can be dangerous if not treated properly. A person with obstructive sleep apnea will be at increased risk for heart failure, diabetes, and depression. Fortunately, there is no cure for sleep apnea, but many treatments are available to treat the symptoms. You’ll need to be examined by a physician to determine which treatment is best for you.
The Final Verdict
A sleep apnea treatment can include lifestyle changes. For example, reducing your intake of alcohol and quitting smoking can all improve your health if you smoke. If you have a snoring problem, avoiding these habits may help you sleep better. However, if you suffer from severe cases of sleep apnea, you may also need to undergo a sleep study to see if you need a different treatment.
