Sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, or apneas, occur when the muscles in the back of the throat fail to keep the airway open, causing the person to briefly wake up to resume breathing.

There are 3 main types of sleep apnea:

1. obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
2. central sleep apnea (CSA)
3. Complex sleep apnea syndrome  OSA is the more common type and occurs when the airway is physically blocked, often by the relaxation of the tongue and throat muscles during sleep. CSA, on the other hand, occurs when the brain fails to signal the muscles that control breathing.
   Complex sleep apnea syndrome also referred to as treatment- emergent central sleep apnea, occurs when a person is suffering from obstructive sleep apnea as well as central sleep apnea.
   Common risk factors for sleep apnea include obesity, smoking, alcohol use, and having a family history of the condition.
   Other factors, such as age, gender, and certain medical conditions, may also increase the risk.

Sleep - Apnea Symptoms

The typical signs and symptoms of obstructive and central sleep apneas include

• Snoring Loudly
• Experiencing stop and start of breathing during sleep - usually noticed by another person
• Panting for air during sleep
• Experiencing dry mouth after waking up
• Headache
• choking episodes in night with frequent awakening
• excessive daytime sleepiness
• morning headaches
• frequent urination in night

Treatment for sleep apnea may include lifestyle changes, such as weight loss or quitting smoking, or the use of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine

• Lifestyle changes:Losing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives can help improve sleep apnea symptoms in some cases.
• CPAP therapy:The most common treatment for sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. This involves wearing a mask over the nose and/or mouth that delivers a constant stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep.
• Oral appliances:Some people with mild to moderate sleep apnea may benefit from wearing a custom-made oral appliance that helps keep the airway open.
• Behavioral therapy:Some people may benefit from behavioral therapy to improve sleep hygiene, such as establishing a regular sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.

Need more help contact to our healthcare professional –

Dr. JEENAM SHAH -to determine the best solution for your specific sleep apnea symptoms and underlying causes.

Dr. Jeenam SHAH -Pulmonologist in South Mumbai is an exclusive Advanced Specialty Clinic for treatment of all forms are Respiratory and Allergic disorders. Dr. Shah is an expert in the field of bronchoscopy and Interventional Pulmonology with a keen interest in Airway & Interstitial Lung Disorders and Sleep Apnea management. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, so it's important to seek treatment if you suspect that you may have the condition