Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which a person repeatedly stops and starts breathing during sleep. These pauses in breathing, called apneas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and may occur 30 or more times an hour. This leads to fragmented sleep and can have significant health consequences due to reduced oxygen levels in the blood.
There are three main types of sleep apnea:
Common Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
- Loud snoring (especially in OSA)
- Episodes of breathing cessation observed by another person
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
- Morning headache
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- High blood pressure
- Decreased libido
Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea:
Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, either a polysomnography (PSG) conducted in a sleep lab or a home sleep apnea test (HSAT). These tests monitor breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, brain activity, and muscle activity during sleep to determine the presence and severity of sleep apnea.
General Approaches to Sleep Apnea Treatment:
Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider are essential to assess treatment effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Early diagnosis and consistent treatment of sleep apnea are vital to prevent serious health complications and improve overall well-being.
