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Sleep apnea is a common yet serious disorder where your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It can affect anyone, but it's most prevalent in older adults and people who are overweight. Let's explore what sleep apnea is, how to recognize it, and what you can do about it.
One of the main signs of sleep apnea is loud snoring, often accompanied by choking or gasping sounds. This happens because the muscles in your throat relax too much, blocking your airway. This type is known as obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the most common form. There’s also central sleep apnea (CSA), which occurs when your brain doesn't send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Symptoms often include waking up with a dry mouth, morning headaches, and feeling excessively sleepy during the day. If you or a loved one notice these signs, it might be time to see a doctor. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to more severe health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and even stroke.
Several factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea. Being overweight is a significant risk factor because extra fat can thicken the walls of the windpipe, making it harder to keep open. Other risk factors include having a thick neck, being male, older age, family history, and using substances like alcohol or sedatives, which relax the muscles in your throat.
Fortunately, there are effective treatments available. Lifestyle changes can make a big difference. Losing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol close to bedtime are good starting points. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, doctors often recommend continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. This involves wearing a mask over your nose and mouth while you sleep, which provides a steady stream of air to keep your airways open.
For some people, dental devices that keep the airway open or surgery to remove excess tissue might be recommended. Another simple but effective strategy is positional therapy, which involves training yourself to sleep on your side instead of your back.
If you think you might have sleep apnea, don't ignore it. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and explore the best treatment options for you. Getting a good night's sleep is crucial for your health and well-being, and addressing sleep apnea can help you achieve just that.
