Sleep Apnea: A Complete Guide to Its Impact on Your Health

Sleep apnea affects millions of people around the world. It is described as interrupted breathing during sleep, resulting in poor sleep quality and other health issues. These pauses may last a few seconds to more than a minute and occur multiple times throughout the night. This can lead to poor quality sleep and a range of health problems.

This article will explore the causes, symptoms, and impact of sleep apnea on your health.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

The two main types of this sleeping disorder are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). OSA results from the blockage of the airways, usually due to the relaxation of the muscles in the throat. Conversely, CSA happens when the brain does not send the proper signals to muscles that facilitate breathing.

Risk factors for sleep apnea include smoking, obesity, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. Genetics also plays a role in the occurrence of sleep apnea.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

The most common symptom is loud snoring, often accompanied by gasping or choking sounds. Other symptoms include the following:

• Daytime Fatigue and Sleepiness
• Morning Headaches
• Difficulty Concentrating
• Irritability and Mood Changes
• Dry Mouth or Sore Throat upon Waking Up
• Restless Sleep or Insomnia

Impact of Sleep Apnea on Your Health

It’s no secret that sleep apnea may negatively affect your overall health and well-being. The interrupted breathing during sleep can cause a drop in oxygen levels, leading to a wide range of health issues, such as:

• High Blood Pressure: Sleep apnea causes high blood pressure or worsens existing high blood pressure, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Heart disease: People with sleep apnea are at higher risk of developing heart disease, including coronary artery disease and heart failure.
• Type 2 Diabetes: Sleep apnea is associated with insulin resistance, which may lead to the onset of type 2 diabetes.
• Obesity: Although obesity is a common risk factor for sleep apnea, sleep apnea may also contribute to weight gain by disrupting a person’s hormones that regulate appetite and metabolism.
• Depression and Anxiety: Poor sleep quality and daytime fatigue can contribute to depression and anxiety.

Treatment of Sleep Apnea

See your healthcare provider if you think or feel you have sleep apnea. They will redirect you to a sleep specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment. 

• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): This is the most conventional treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask that delivers pressurized air to open the airways during sleep.
• Oral Appliances: These devices are usually worn in the mouth to rearrange the jaw and tongue to keep the airways open.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended to get rid of excess tissue from the throat or to reposition the jaw.
• Lifestyle Changes: Losing weight, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol consumption can all help reduce the severity of sleep apnea.

Key Takeaway

Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on you. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, see a doctor at once for a proper diagnosis and treatment. With the right treatment, you can improve your sleep quality and reduce your risk of developing severe health issues.

At Lethbridge Snoring & Sleep Apnea Clinic, we offer comprehensive diagnosis and treatment options to help you get the quality sleep you deserve. Our team of sleep specialists can help you treat and manage your sleep apnea symptoms and determine the best course of action for them. Visit our sleep clinic in Lethbridge, AB, or call us at +1 403-327-7501 to schedule an appointment!