Many of us are very fortunate to be able fall asleep with no interruptions but have you ever thought of what it would be like to fall asleep and suddenly waking up to a choking episode? This is what is known as sleep apnea…….and what is sleep apnea…….what are the symptoms and treatments?
Sleep Apnea
A sleeping disorder that interrupts sleep due to shallow breathing or breathing suddenly stops lasting ten to twenty seconds constantly during sleep causing the person to wake up 20 to 30 times during an hour; at this point the brain and the body may not be getting enough oxygen.
2 Types of Sleep Apnea
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea
This is the most common of the two; it is estimated that over 12 million people suffer from obstructive sleep apnea, it is caused by blockage of the airway usually when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapse during sleep. The majority of people who suffer this form of sleep apnea are overweight and snore.
Sleep apnea is seen more in men; one out of 25 middle aged men and one out of fifty middle aged women. Sleep apnea is commonly seen in African Americans, Hispanics, and may occur in children that snore.
- Central Sleep Apnea
Unlike obstructive sleep apnea, there is no throat blockage the brain just fails to signal the muscles to breathe due to instability in the respiratory control
Who is at risk?
Sleep apnea does not discriminate it can affect anyone and at any age.
- Males
- Overweight
- Over the age of forty
- Large neck size (Men 17in or more Women 16in or more)
- Large tonsils, tongue, or a small jaw bone
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Nasal obstruction due to deviated septum, allergies, or sinus problems
Signs & Symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Sudden choking or gasping for air
- Sleepiness during the day
Diagnosis
Your physician may order a sleep study to monitor your breathing and how often the interruptions are happing during sleep.
Treatment
Most common treatment for sleep apnea is Continuous positive airway pressure; it consist of the patient wearing a mask over the nose during sleep. The mask provides air into the throat at a pressure level keeping the throat open while the patient sleeps. The air pressure is adjusted enough to stop the airways from getting too small during sleep. The patient must use the mask nightly and must use it correctly to get the maximum benefits.
I was wondering do they have to be overweight? My uncle is very skinny and has always had problems with snoring and breathing at night. Interesting how it can increase the risk of a stroke in men. I must let my uncle know very helpful information and video.
ReplyDeleteCan this be hereditary? My uncle has this, but also the kids. They are gasping for air during the night, but at the same time they are on the heavy side. I know this may sound stupid, but can people die from this?
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