What does sleep apnea mean?
Types Of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles in the neck and head relax during sleep, causing the surrounding tissue to press against the windpipe and block the airflow.
Central Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea is caused by a cognitive issue where the brain fails to send signals to the breathing muscles during sleep. This type of sleep apnea is not related to physical obstructions in the airway.
Causes of central sleep apnea include heart attacks, hypoxia (low blood oxygen levels), and injuries to the nervous system that control breathing.
Mixed/Complex Sleep Apnea
Mixed/complex sleep apnea is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea. It exhibits symptoms from both types of apnea.
How Is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
To diagnose sleep apnea, a healthcare professional will ask about your symptoms and medical history. If they suspect sleep apnea, they may recommend a sleep study to monitor your breathing patterns during sleep.
Lifestyle Modifications to Adopt When Diagnosed with Sleep Apnea
Adopting certain lifestyle changes can help improve breathing and manage sleep apnea. These modifications include:
- Following a heart-healthy diet
- Establishing restful sleeping practices
- Reducing alcohol intake
- Sleeping on your side, maintaining a healthy weight, and quitting smoking
Treatments To Cure Sleep Apnea
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy
CPAP therapy is the primary treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask that delivers a continuous stream of positive pressure air to keep the airway open during sleep.
Some patients may find it challenging to adjust to CPAP therapy initially, but there are ways to make it more comfortable, such as adjusting the mask parameters and using humidification to alleviate nasal problems.
Surgery
Surgery may be recommended for patients with obstructive sleep apnea. Various surgical techniques can be used to remove excess tissue, enlarge the airway, or address obstructions in the throat or nose.
The extent of the surgery will determine whether it is performed in a hospital or a doctor’s office.