Sleep apnea is a common yet serious sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These pauses in breathing can last from a few seconds to over a minute and may occur hundreds of times throughout the night. When a person’s breathing stops, it can cause a drop in oxygen levels, which triggers the brain to wake the body up just enough to resume breathing. This cycle disrupts the sleep pattern and prevents the person from reaching the deeper, more restorative stages of sleep.

There are two main types of sleep apnea:

  1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is the most common form and occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much, causing the airway to become partially or completely blocked.
  2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): This type is less common and happens when the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
  3. Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this occurs when someone has both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, but it is more common in men, older adults, and those who are overweight. Risk factors also include a family history of sleep apnea, smoking, alcohol use, and certain medical conditions such as hypertension or type 2 diabetes.

If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to a range of health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and daytime fatigue, which can increase the risk of accidents. Fortunately, sleep apnea is treatable, and management options include lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, and other medical interventions.

If you suspect you or a loved one may have sleep apnea, it’s essential to seek a professional evaluation. Proper diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve your quality of life and overall health.  Book a free consult.