Sleep Apnea

Causes

• Obesity - Excess weight is the most common cause of obstructive sleep apnea in adults, as fat deposits around the upper airway can obstruct breathing.
• Enlarged tonsils or adenoids - Particularly common in children, enlarged tonsils and adenoids can block the airway during sleep.
• Anatomical features - A naturally narrow airway, large tongue, recessed chin, or deviated septum can predispose individuals to sleep apnea.
• Age - Sleep apnea becomes more common as you age, with risk increasing significantly after 40.
• Family history - Sleep apnea can run in families, suggesting a genetic component.
• Gender - Men are two to three times more likely to have sleep apnea than women, though women's risk increases after menopause.
• Smoking - Smokers are three times more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea than non-smokers due to increased inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway.
• Alcohol or sedative use - These substances relax throat muscles, potentially worsening obstruction.
• Nasal congestion - Difficulty breathing through the nose can contribute to sleep apnea.
• Medical conditions - Conditions like heart failure, Parkinson's disease, and prior stroke can increase the risk of central sleep apnea.
• Hormonal disorders - Conditions like hypothyroidism and acromegaly can increase risk by causing tissue swelling in the airway.

Signs and Symptoms

• Loud snoring - Often a key indicator of obstructive sleep apnea, though not everyone who snores has sleep apnea.
• Episodes of breathing cessation during sleep - Often reported by another person.
• Gasping for air during sleep - Choking or gasping sounds as breathing resumes after a pause.
• Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat - Due to mouth breathing during sleep.
• Morning headache - Caused by low oxygen levels during sleep.
• Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia) - Often due to breathing difficulties or frequent awakenings.
• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia) - Difficulty concentrating and falling asleep during routine activities.
• Irritability and mood changes - Due to poor sleep quality and quantity.
• High blood pressure - Sleep apnea stresses the cardiovascular system.
• Decreased libido or impotence - Linked to lower oxygen levels and disrupted sleep.
• Night sweats - Excessive sweating during sleep.
• Frequent need to urinate at night (nocturia).
• Difficulty concentrating during the day.

Diagnosis

Treatment Options

Home Remedies

Preventive Care

• Maintain a healthy weight through proper diet and regular exercise.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking, and sedatives, especially before bedtime.
• Establish regular sleep patterns with consistent bedtime and wake-up times.
• Sleep on your side rather than your back to keep your airway open.
• Treat chronic nasal congestion, allergies, or other conditions that can interfere with breathing.
• Use a humidifier in your bedroom if you live in a dry climate or experience nasal dryness.
• Practice good sleep hygiene, including a comfortable sleep environment and limiting screen time before bed.
• If you have CPAP or another treatment device, use it consistently and as prescribed.
• Have regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your condition and adjust treatment as needed.
• If you're at high risk for sleep apnea, consider periodic screening even without symptoms.

Surgical Options