Sleep Apnea - The Facts About This Important Sleep Disorder

Jun 11
08:40

2006

Leonard Mutch

Leonard Mutch

  • Share this article on Facebook
  • Share this article on Twitter
  • Share this article on Linkedin

Do you suffer from sleep apnea or other sleep disorders? Discover how you to can get a good night's sleep in this informative article

mediaimage

Sleep apnea is a common problem in the adult population,Sleep Apnea - The Facts About This Important Sleep Disorder Articles and is characterised by a reduction or stoppage of breathing when someone is asleep.

There are 2 main types - obstructive (which is more common) and central,but also a mixed type which is a combination of both obstructive and central.

Treatment for sleep apnea can be nonsurgical or surgical.

What is apnea? In layman's terms it means that someone has stopped breathing for about 10 seconds or perhaps more. These episodes of apnea have a tendency to occur more often when a person is asleep, thus disrupting the sleep, and often wakening the sleeper up.

Doctors use various indexes which measure the severity of the sleep apnea to decide on their treatment options.

What causes sleep apnea? In the case of central sleep apnea it happens when the brain fails to send signals to the respiratory muscles. This is most common in babies, and in adults with heart problems, but can also be caused by some medicines.

In obstructive sleep apnea the message from the brain to the respiratory muscles gets through but breathing fails through an obstruction preventing the flow of air.

Mixed sleep apnea is caused by a combination of these failures.

Obstructive sleep apnea affects more men than women,and is more common and has increased severity in obese people.

What are the symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea? Not only does it disrupt sleep, it also causes heart problems and high blood pressure, and increased risk of stroke. Sufferers are also more likley no have accidents at work and on the road through lack of concentration related to not getting enough sleep.

How is obstructive sleep apnea treated? There are several non surgical options varying from behavioral changes to medications and dental appliances.

Behavioral changes may simply involve getting the sufferer to change their sleeping position, as most apneas seem to occur whilst sleeping on the back. A change in diet and lifestyle with consequent reduction in obesity can also markedly reduce the severity of symptoms. However, these changes are easier to talk about than to implement.

Dental appliances are sometimes used for mild cases of obstructive sleep apnea - these work by holding the jaw and tongue forward and the palate up to prevent airway closure.

One of the best non surgical treatments is called CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure. This is a machine which delivers heated and humidified air under pressure through a mask to the sufferer whilst they sleep. The machine is light and portable, and most people quickly get used to the noise the machine makes, and to wearing a mask.

Surgical options for obstructive sleep apnea include palate implants, reducing the size of the tongue, procedures on the jaws, and surgery of the nasal passages. Surgery should not be undertaken lightly because of the underlying risks of anesthesia and complications from the surgery itself.

If you suffer from obstructive sleep apnea or know anyone who does, then it is important that you seek qualified medical advice as soon as possible. Continuing your life without recourse to treatment leaves you open to much higher risk of heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, and even sudden death.

Seek specialist help today.

Also From This Author

Nourishing the Senior Canine: A Guide to Optimal Aging

Nourishing the Senior Canine: A Guide to Optimal Aging

Ensuring the health and longevity of your aging dog involves tailoring their diet to meet the changing nutritional needs that come with advancing years. As dogs grow older, their metabolism slows down, their activity levels decrease, and they may face age-related health issues. Adjusting their feeding habits is crucial to maintain their optimal weight, delay the progression of aging, and prevent diseases. This guide will delve into the specifics of feeding senior dogs, offering insights into the dietary adjustments necessary for their well-being.
Essential Leaf Blower Maintenance Guide

Essential Leaf Blower Maintenance Guide

Maintaining your leaf blower is crucial for ensuring its longevity and optimal performance. Regular servicing can prevent breakdowns, extend the life of your equipment, and guarantee safe operation. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the necessary steps to keep your leaf blower running smoothly, from daily inspections to monthly upkeep. With the right care, your leaf blower will be a reliable tool for keeping your garden pristine.
Essential Considerations for Purchasing Your Initial Garden Leaf Blower

Essential Considerations for Purchasing Your Initial Garden Leaf Blower

When embarking on the journey to purchase your first garden leaf blower, it's crucial to consider various factors to ensure you select a tool that not only saves you time but also aligns with your garden's specific needs. A leaf blower can transform the tedious task of gathering leaves into a swift and effortless chore. With options ranging from handheld models to powerful backpack units, it's important to weigh the size of your garden, the volume of leaf fall, and your physical comfort when choosing the right leaf blower.