What causes sleep apnea?

You're fast asleep, dreaming of a tropical vacation. Suddenly, you gasp awake, feeling like you've been held underwater. This isn't a nightmare – it's sleep apnea, a common condition that disrupts your breathing throughout the night.

Sleep apnea isn't just about feeling tired in the morning. It's a serious health problem that affects people of all ages, from tiny tots to adults. This article explores the world of sleep apnea, discussing its causes, risk factors, and most importantly, how to overcome it.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea, most commonly obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), happens when your airway gets blocked or collapses repeatedly during sleep. This causes you to stop breathing for short periods, leading to gasping, choking, and fragmented sleep. You might not even realize it's happening, but the consequences can be severe.

Daytime fatigue? That's a classic symptom. But sleep apnea can also increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, and even depression!

Who's Most at Risk?

The bad news is anyone can get sleep apnea. However, some groups are more susceptible. Below is a breakdown of risk factors for different age groups.

Children

Childhood obesity as well as enlarged tonsils and adenoids are major risk factors for pediatric sleep apnea. Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, sickle cell disease, and neuromuscular disease are also on the list. Additionally, having birth defects in the face or skull that could affect the airway also poses a risk. A history of low birth weight or obstructive sleep apnea in the family could also increase the risk of developing childhood sleep apnea. Furthermore, childhood OSA puts teens at risk for high blood pressure.

Teenagers

The usual suspects - obesity and family history - play a role. Puberty throws a curveball too, with hormonal changes potentially affecting sleep patterns. A Swedish study has also revealed that teens’ social life affects their sleep quality, with popular teens getting less sleep than their peers.

Adults

Obesity takes center stage here. Excess weight around the neck can block your airway. Age, neck size, and even your facial structure can also contribute. Lifestyle choices like smoking and alcohol abuse can be a double whammy. Below is an overview of sleep apnea risk factors for adults.

Age-Related Factors

Increasing age
Hormonal changes (thyroid, insulin, growth hormone)

Physical Factors

Obesity
Large tonsils and thick neck
Large tongue
Fluid buildup (heart or kidney failure)
Facial structure (genetics, cleft lip/palate, Down syndrome)

Lifestyle Factors

Alcohol consumption
Smoking

Other Factors

Family history

If you snore loud enough to wake the dead, experience frequent sleep interruptions, and feel constantly tired, it's time to talk to your doctor.

Treating Sleep Apnea

The good news is sleep apnea is treatable! Here's your arsenal.

Lifestyle Changes

This is often the first line of defense. Losing weight, exercising regularly, and kicking the smoking habit can significantly improve symptoms. Bonus Tip: Sleep health is crucial. Practice good sleep hygiene by setting a regular sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed.

PAP (Positive Airway Pressure)

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is a proven treatment for sleep apnea. This machine uses a mask to deliver a steady stream of air that keeps your airway open while you sleep. While not everyone loves wearing a mask while sleeping, Bi-level Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) has been shown to improve tolerance and compliance among sleep apnea patients, especially those who are incompatible with CPAP.

Oral Appliances

These custom-made devices fit in your mouth and adjust your jaw and tongue position to keep the airway clear.

Surgery

For children, removing tonsils and adenoids can potentially be curative for pediatric OSA. Adults might benefit from surgeries to remove excess tissue or reshape their airways in unique circumstances but surgery does not cure OSA in adults, nor is surgery standard of care.

Don’t Snooze on Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious problem, but it doesn't have to control your life. By understanding the causes and risk factors, you can be proactive in getting diagnosed and treated. If you suspect you or someone you know might have sleep apnea, talk to a sleep expert. The pros at nightly.health are well-qualified in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea.

Take your sleep assessment today and regain control of your sleep, your health, and your life!