Things You Need to Know About Obstructive Sleep Apnea

The disorder known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is frequently linked to snoring and persistent weariness, can have adverse and even fatal effects. This summary was created because sleep apnea is a topic about which we frequently receive inquiries.

What is obstructive sleep apnea

Overview of the physical issues that cause obstructive sleep apnea there are several physical problems that cause OSA. The muscles in your neck, mouth, and throat also relax while you're sleeping and cause you to stop breathing while sleeping. When we are asleep, the muscles that support our throat's surfaces, tonsils, soft palates, and tonsils naturally relax. 

However, those who have sleep apnea have soft tissue restrictions in their airways, which prevents them from breathing normally while they are asleep. After 10 seconds or more, the brain detects the shortage of oxygen and triggers a brief awakening of the body. The apnea ends and the person resumes breathing at that point. Without taking a breath, periods can last up to a few minutes and can occur up to 30 times in an hour, all during the course of the night. 

OSA is more likely to affect some persons. For instance, sleep apnea is four times more common in men. Additionally, post-menopausal or pregnant women as well as people over 65 are more likely to experience it. According to studies, sleep apnea is partially inherited, making those who have a family history more likely to also have it. Additional danger signs include: 

• Being severely fat or overweight 
• A neck that is too big, swollen tonsils or adenoids that can constrict the airway, 
• The consumption of alcohol, sleeping tablets, or specific prescription drugs. 
• Smoking. 

Obstructive sleep apnea symptoms

Someone with this illness will frequently cease breathing for small periods throughout the course of the night. Sleep apnea is frequently accompanied by loud snoring, but it also has other major health consequences. 

The following are signs of sleep apnea: 

• Loud snoring, 
• Choking or gasping 
• Waking up with a scratchy throat or a notably dry tongue, 
• Periods of not breathing, or being informed that you did not breathe while you slept 
• Headaches in the morning, 
• Difficulty falling or staying asleep (insomnia).

Complications of obstructive sleep apnea

People who have sleep apnea typically don't remember awakening or feeling like they couldn't breathe. The symptoms of sleep apnea are most noticeable during the day.

Fatigue throughout the day 

One of the main concerns that prompt OSA sufferers to look for solutions is a persistent sense of being tired or sleepy. Is sleep apnea dangerous? Yes, some people find it difficult to stay awake while performing everyday tasks like working or operating a vehicle. People have a difficult time getting the necessary sleep at night since sleep apnea is so disturbing. This affects their capacity for paying attention and their level of energy throughout the day.

Memory & Attention Issues

One reason people have trouble sleeping is sleep apnea. It frequently has an adverse effect on memory and attention. This explains why those who have sleep apnea are more than twice as likely to be injured at work or be involved in car accidents.

Mood swings and headaches

The shortage of oxygen causes headaches in many people, especially in the morning. Additionally closely related to irritability, sadness, and other symptoms of sleep loss include sleep apnea. 

For obstructive sleep apnea, various treatments may be available, including: 

• Should be losing weight. It can make a difference to lose even 10% of your body weight. 
• Avoid using sleeping medications and alcohol. These increase the likelihood that your airway will seal as you sleep, preventing you from breathing properly for longer periods of time. 
• On your side when you sleep. If you simply experience mild sleep apnea when you turn over in bed, this may be of assistance. 
• Nose sprays. These may be useful if your breathing while sleeping is made difficult by sinus issues or nasal congestion. 
• CPAP machine You can cover your mouth, nose, or both with the mask that comes with this device. Constant air is blown into your mouth or nose by an air blower. Just enough air pressure is present to prevent excessive tissue relaxation in your upper airway during sleep. A comparable gadget is the BPAP, which has two air flow levels that alter in response to your breathing in and out. 
• Oral devices Dental devices that prevent your tongue from obstructing your throat or move your lower jaw forward may be prescribed if you have mild sleep apnea. That might assist in keeping your airway clear as you sleep. The ideal type of device for you may be chosen by a qualified dental professional. 

Obstructive sleep apnea diagnosis

A sleep study might be suggested by our Sleep apnea doctors in Suffolk. The subject may spend the night in a sleep lab while specialized equipment monitors their heart rate, oxygen levels, eye and leg movements, and brain waves. The outcomes will subsequently be interpreted by a sleep expert. 

Some individuals can take the test at home. However, if a doctor feels that a person may have an underlying health concern, they will order an in-lab sleep study. 

Some individuals can take the test at home. However, our sleep apnea dentist in Suffolk will advise an in-lab sleep study if they think the patient might have a hidden medical problem.