There are three primary types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and complex.

• Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), as mentioned, occurs when the muscles at the back of your throat relax excessively, leading to blocked airflow.
• Central sleep apnea (CSA), although less common, occurs when the brain fails to transmit signals to your breathing muscles.
• Complex sleep apnea syndrome, which is a combination of both OSA and CSA, can complicate treatment and requires professional intervention.

Each type has unique implications and treatment pathways.

Causes of sleep apnea can be multifaceted. Obstructive sleep apnea is often associated with being overweight, but it can also occur in people of normal weight. Age, neck circumference, a smaller upper airway, and a family history of sleep apnea are contributing factors. Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, is often linked to underlying conditions like heart failure or stroke. Recognizing these causes helps in addressing them holistically.

 

Some Factors Increase Your Risk

People who are obese are four times more likely to have sleep apnea than people of normal weight. Smokers are three times more likely than nonsmokers to have sleep apnea.

Unfortunately, there are some risk factors for sleep apnea beyond your control. Being male doubles the possibility of having a sleeping disorder while women whom have passed menopause are more likely to suffer from the condition. Your family history is a factor and having family members with sleep apnea raises the threat for you. So, how can you know when it is necessary to see a doctor?

• You are snoring loud enough to wake yourself or others
• You experience shortness of breath or gasping for air that awakens you
• You have pauses in your breathing during sleep
• You suffer from extreme daytime drowsiness which may cause you to fall asleep during normal activities

Experiencing more than one of the above symptoms means that you should seek medical advice.

Symptoms of sleep apnea can vary widely, but they often include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, morning headaches, and excessive daytime sleepiness. Cognitive impairments, such as difficulty concentrating, can also manifest, making life challenging for sufferers. Identifying these symptoms is crucial; many people overlook them, thinking they are merely experiencing bad sleep.

One of the most common ways to manage sleep apnea is through a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure Device (CPAP). CPAP is a device that painlessly delivers pressurized air into the throat during sleep. This ensures that you are getting enough oxygen. Another option is an oral appliance which is designed to open your throat by bringing your jaw forward. The final option is surgery to enlarge the airway through your nose or throat.