Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep, which can lead to poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, and serious health complications if untreated. The pauses in breathing may last for a few seconds to minutes and occur multiple times throughout the night.
Types of Sleep Apnea:
1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) – most common form
- Caused by partial or complete blockage of the upper airway during sleep
- Muscles in the throat relax excessively, collapsing the airway
- Risk factors: Obesity, large tonsils, nasal blockage, small jaw, smoking
2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
- Caused by the brain failing to send proper signals to the breathing muscles
- Seen more often in people with heart failure, neurological disorders, or on certain medications
3. Complex (Mixed) Sleep Apnea
- A combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea
Common Symptoms:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping, choking, or snorting during sleep
- Pauses in breathing observed by a bed partner
- Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
- Morning headaches
- Dry mouth or sore throat on waking
- Difficulty concentrating or irritability
