Sleep apnea is basically a sleep disorder that is characterized by repeated pauses in breathing while sleeping. These pauses, referred to as apneas, can go on for a few seconds up to a minute and can take place up to 30 times each hour. Sleep apnea could result in a number of health issues if left untreated. These include stroke, heart attack, high blood pressure and even death.
Loud snoring is among the most common sleep apnea symptoms. This results from the partial obstruction of the airway. This contributes to the air vibrating the soft tissue in the back of the throat, causing the distinctive sound of snoring. However, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea.
Another sleep apnea symptom is frequently waking up during the night to urinate. This results from the brain stimulating the bladder during an episode of apnea. This could cause difficulty falling and remaining asleep. This often leads to irritability, daytime fatigue and a struggle to concentrate.
Sleep apnea could also cause morning headaches. This is because there is a constant drop in oxygen levels and a subsequent surge in carbon dioxide levels throughout the night. This could lead to the blood vessels in the brain constricting, causing a headache in the morning.
Depression is another symptom of sleep apnea. Depression is essentially a mood disorder that is characterized by loss of interest in activities, persistent sadness and a struggle to concentrate. This could be caused by a deficiency in restful sleep and the related irritability, daytime fatigue and difficulty in concentrating.
It should be noted that not all individuals with this condition have the same symptoms and some individuals may experience no symptoms. If you unsure whether you have sleep apnea, consulting with a sleep specialist should be considered. Lifestyle changes like losing weight and avoiding sedatives and alcohol before bed are some of the treatment options. Another mode of treatment involves using a CPAP or continuous positive airway pressure machine or other methods of airway pressure therapy. In cases that are more severe, surgery may be required to get rid of extra tissue from the airway.
If you are experiencing any of the above-mentioned symptoms, having a consultation with a sleep specialist would be wise. Sleep apnea could become a serious health condition; however, with correct diagnosis and proper treatment, it can be managed. This will greatly reduce or eliminate sleep apnea symptoms.
