Sleep apnea is a prevalent concern that is frequently misdiagnosed. This condition is possibly life-threatening because it causes breathing to momentary pauses in one’s breathing during sleep. Persons with sleep apnea might not be conscious of the condition, but several warning signs could suggest it. If you think you might have sleep apnea Surprise, you should immediately seek further testing and treatment. Meanwhile, continue reading to learn more about sleep apnea, including common symptoms to look out for and how to diagnose and treat this condition.
What Exactly Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea could affect all age groups, including youngsters. The two common sleep apnea types are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea.
However, most occurrences are triggered by pharyngeal or nasal blockages that impede breathing, characteristic of obstructive sleep apnea. This condition could disrupt comfortable, deep sleep and lead to increased daytime fatigue.
What Are The Common Symptoms and Warning Signs?
The symptoms of central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea are similar in many cases. Therefore, anyone experiencing any of the following should immediately see a physician for an accurate diagnosis:
- Intense snoring
- Dry mouth after waking up
- Occurrences of pauses in breathing during sleep (often observed by another person)
- Snorting, choking, or gasping for oxygen during sleep
- Morning migraines
- Having trouble concentrating
- Irritability
- Associated sleep disorders like insomnia (difficulty remaining asleep) and hypersomnia (extreme daytime sleepiness)
- Daytime drowsiness and lethargy, even after a good night’s sleep
Individuals with central sleep apnea might awaken with breathing problems or have difficulty falling and staying asleep.
What Factors Increase Your Risk For Sleep Apnea?
There are numerous causes of sleep apnea, but some risk factors might raise the likelihood of developing the disorder, including:
- Having a constricted airway, swollen adenoids, or tonsils that could obstruct the airway.
- Family history
- Being male
- Being overweight or obese
- Advanced age
- Nasal congestion
- Specific health disorders, like hypertension
- Stroke or heart diseases
- Smoking
- Alcohol or some drugs, like sedatives
- Certain pharmaceuticals
How To Diagnose Sleep Apnea?
If you fear you have sleep apnea, a neurology physician could assist you in discovering the cause of your condition and the most effective therapy. Your physician will check your throat and nose for structural problems, and they might order a sleep study to assist in identifying sleep apnea and assess its severity.
How To Treat Sleep Apnea?
Therapy for sleep apnea varies according to the underlying cause and degree of the condition. Your doctor might initially suggest lifestyle modification to manage your risk factors, such as losing weight, improving sleep posture, and more. Other alternative care solutions include:
- Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP)
- Oral appliances
If conservative treatments are ineffective in treating your sleep apnea, your physician may consider tissue removal, jaw relocation, or another surgical procedure to enhance your nighttime breathing.
Do not disregard the warning signs of sleep apnea. If left untreated, this condition could raise your risk of eye and heart problems, as well as surgical complications. Learn more regarding this prevalent sleep disorder and how you could safeguard your health through a consultation at Oasis Ear, Nose, and Throat. Call the Surprise, AZ office, or use the online booking tool to arrange an appointment today.
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