SLEEP APNEA

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is when someone stops breathing for 10 to 30 seconds at a time during sleep. These episodes can happen many times a night, but they may not wake one up. The episodes will prevent a person from getting a decent quality of sleep, causing one to wake up exhausted.

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, occurring in 90% of cases. In this situation, something blocks the airway, such as the tongue, tonsils or uvula. People who are overweight tend to have problems because of the additional weight on their chests and abdomens.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

You might suspect it if you sleep through the night, but are tired upon waking. You might notice daytime sleepiness (such as falling asleep at work, while driving, or when talking), irritability, fatigue, morning headaches, forgetfulness, mood changes, and a decreased interest in sex. Someone who watches you sleep may notice heavy snoring or long pauses in your breathing.

In order to make a certain diagnosis, the doctor may want you to have a sleep study. Sometimes this can be done at home, but sometimes it will be done in a sleep lab.

Is sleep apnea dangerous?

Sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease and stroke, and makes it more difficult to control weight, blood pressure, and diabetes. Excessive sleepiness can lead to traffic accidents and other accidents.

Is there anything I can do to help my sleep apnea?

Your doctor may prescribe a special mask that fits over your nose and mouth while you sleep. This treatment is called "continuous positive airway pressure," or C-PAP. The mask keeps your airway open by adding pressure to the air you breathe. The mask helps most people with sleep apnea. In some cases, surgery is recommended to remove tonsils or other tissue from the throat.

Adapted from the American Academy of Physicians