Sleep Apnea FAQ
What exactly is an apnea and why is it important?
An apnea is a short pause in normal breathing when someone is asleep, often caused when lying on the back during sleep due to the tongue or other soft mouth tissue falling back and blocking the throat, as well as muscle relaxation that can narrow the airway. When this happens, the brain is alerted to an oxygen emergency: as Drs. Lynn and Edmund Lipskis note in Breathe, Sleep, Live, Smile, someone can go without food for 40 days and eight without water, but only a few minutes with no air. A signal is sent to the body to wake up and breathe deeply, but few people become fully conscious, just enough to take normal breaths before going back to a light sleep before the rhythm is disturbed again. This can happen up to 100 times a night without the individual even being aware of what has been happening, although she or he knows they are always tired.
What are the most common symptoms aside from feeling sleepy during the day?
The first signs that something unusual has happened during the night are usually a sore throat and the feeling that there is “cotton in the mouth,” both due to unconscious breathing through the mouth in an effort to get more oxygen. Others may be choking because of the airway blockage and morning migraines (headaches can also occur the rest of the day). But the lack of restorative sleep usually results in anxiety, irritability, and depression not attributable to life circumstances. And to put the risk of driving to work without a good night’s sleep: sleep deprivation due to all factors is responsible for 100,000 auto accidents a year and an average of 1,550 deaths.
What are the risks from sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea, especially Obstructive Sleep Apnea, is more than just loud snoring. It can lead to serious health risks if left untreated. Here are the key risks:
- Increased risk of high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Higher likelihood of heart disease and heart attacks
- Greater risk of stroke
- Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias), including atrial fibrillation
- Type 2 diabetes or worsening blood sugar control
- Chronic fatigue and excessive daytime sleepiness
- Impaired concentration, memory issues, and brain fog
- Increased risk of accidents, especially while driving
- Mood disorders such as depression and anxiety
- Weakened immune system
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Complications with medications and surgery, especially anesthesia
- Reduced overall quality of life
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