Causes of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the throat relax and collapse during sleep, blocking the airway. This disruption can lead to pauses in breathing and poor sleep quality.

Central Sleep Apnea, on the other hand, is linked to the brain and nervous system. It often affects individuals with conditions such as neuromuscular disorders, a history of stroke, heart failure, or chronic pulmonary diseases. Unlike OSA, central sleep apnea results from the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.

WHO IS AT RISK FOR OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA?

Obstructive sleep apnea is more common than you might think—affecting about 25% of men and nearly 10% of women. While it can occur at any age, including in children and infants, adults over 40 and individuals who are overweight are at significantly higher risk.

Many people with OSA share similar traits that contribute to airway obstruction during sleep, such as:

• Excess body weight

• A thick or large neck

• Nasal congestion or blockage

• An enlarged soft palate or tonsils

• A small jaw or an overbite

Recognizing these risk factors can be the first step toward diagnosis and effective treatment.