Feeling tired even after a full night's sleep? It might be more than just fatigue. Ignoring the signs of obstructive sleep apnea can impact your health. This guide explains what you need to know to get a proper diagnosis and treatment.
What are the main causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
- The condition occurs when your throat muscles relax too much during sleep, causing a physical blockage of your airway and stopping your breathing.
- Major risk factors include excess body weight, which can add pressure to the airway, as well as having a naturally narrow throat or large tonsils.
- Other common snoring causes that contribute to apnea include alcohol consumption before bed, aging, and a family history of sleep-disordered breathing.
Key symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea to watch for
- Loud, persistent snoring, along with episodes of gasping, choking, or silent breathing pauses during sleep are classic sleep apnea symptoms.
- Severe daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, irritability, and difficulty concentrating are direct results of the poor-quality sleep caused by the disorder.
- Unlike central sleep apnea where the brain fails to send breath signals, OSA is caused by a purely physical obstruction of the upper airway.
How can you prevent Obstructive Sleep Apnea effectively?
- A definitive diagnosis from an overnight sleep study or a prescribed sleep apnea test at home is the essential first step toward management.
- The gold standard for sleep apnea treatment is the CPAP machine, which provides a steady stream of air to keep your airway open.
- Lifestyle changes such as losing weight, avoiding sedatives, and changing your sleep position can also significantly improve or resolve mild cases.
>>> See more: Sarcoidosis - Understanding this complex inflammatory disease
Image showing how a CPAP machine treats Obstructive Sleep Apnea
>>> Related articles: Pulmonary hypertension - More than just high blood pressure
Don't let poor sleep control your life. If you recognize these symptoms, talk to your doctor about a sleep study. Effective treatments are available that can restore your energy, improve your health, and give you back your restful nights.
>>> Learn more: Bronchiectasis - Managing a chronic cough and lung infections
