6 Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea and Snoring

Sleep apnea and snoring are two usual sleep disorders that can impact sleep quality and overall health. If you or someone you know is experiencing sleep apnea or snoring, it is essential to understand the causes, symptoms, and treatments available. 

In this blog, we will deal with frequently asked questions about sleep apnea and snoring to help you better understand these sleep disorders and how they can be managed effectively with the best sleep centers.

1. What is Sleep Apnea?

This is a sleep disorder identified by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep. These intervals can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 or more times per hour. 

Sleep apnea is commonly categorized into three types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea syndrome (or treatment-emergent central sleep apnea).

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most typical form of sleep apnea and develops when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to hold the airway open, despite the effort to breathe. Central sleep apnea is a less common form and is caused by a failure of the brain to transmit the proper signals to the muscles that lead to breathing. Complex sleep apnea syndrome is a merger of obstructive and central sleep apnea.

2. What Causes Snoring?

Snoring is the sound produced when air flows past relaxed tissues in the throat, leading them to vibrate as you breathe. The primary cause of snoring is partial airway obstruction, which can occur for various reasons, including nasal congestion, obesity, alcohol consumption, and sleep position. Snoring can also indicate more severe sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea.

3. What Are the Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea?

Some common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

• Loud snoring

• Gasping or choking during sleep

• Pauses in breathing during sleep (observed by a bed partner)

• Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue

• Morning headaches

• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

• Difficulty concentrating and memory problems

• Irritability or mood changes

• Decreased libido

If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

4. How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?

The best sleep centers will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and discuss your symptoms to diagnose sleep apnea. They may then recommend a sleep study, which can be done in a sleep center or at home.

A sleep study known as polysomnography will record your brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, and other body functions during sleep.

5. What Are the Potential Health Risks Associated with Untreated Sleep Apnea?

Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to several health complications, including:

• High blood pressure

• Heart disease, consisting of heart attack and heart failure

• Stroke

• Type 2 diabetes

• Weight gain and obesity

• Depression and anxiety

• Worsening ADHD symptoms

Furthermore, untreated sleep apnea can contribute to poor work performance and decreased quality of life.

6. What Are the Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea and Snoring?

Treatment options for sleep apnea and snoring depend on the severity of the condition and the dominating cause. Some common treatments include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Losing weight, escaping alcohol and sedatives, changing sleep positions, and practicing good sleep hygiene can help alleviate sleep apnea symptoms and reduce snoring.

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy: A CPAP machine sends a constant flow of air through a mask you wear while sleeping, keeping your airway open and preventing sleep apnea episodes.

• Oral Appliances: These devices, similar to mouth guards or orthodontic retainers, reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open during sleep.

• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be suggested to remove excess tissue in the throat, correct structural abnormalities, or implant a nerve stimulator to improve airway function.

Conclusion

Sleep apnea and snoring can sometimes be cured or significantly improved with appropriate treatment. Lifestyle changes, medical therapies, and surgical interventions are some options available to manage these conditions. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your situation. 

The Lethbridge Snoring & Sleep Apnea Clinic is a beacon of hope for those struggling with sleep-related issues. With a team of passionate professionals, our clinic is dedicated to providing comprehensive sleep testing and assessments to help patients uncover the underlying causes of their sleep disturbances. If you or a loved one are experiencing sleep difficulties, do not hesitate to contact our expert team to experience the best sleep centers in Canada.