Sleep apnea is a common disorder that can cause major health problems, especially if left untreated. It occurs when your breathing is interrupted during sleep. The type of sleep apnea you might develop depends on various factors. However, obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, often caused by an airway blockage. If you constantly struggle to breathe at night, it is advisable you reach out to a sleep apnea Surprise specialist for a diagnosis. Treatment options vary depending on the cause, but the sooner you start treatment, the better your chances of avoiding serious health complications. This article will explore the five main causes of sleep apnea and how to treat them.
- Obesity
Obese individuals are more likely to have sleep apnea due to the accumulation of extra flesh in the throat, which can block the airway. If you are suffering from obesity, it is important to follow a healthy lifestyle to reduce your risk of developing sleep apnea.
Excess weight in the chest and abdominal area can also increase pressure on the chest and diaphragm, making breathing more difficult during sleep. Losing weight through diet and exercise can often improve or even eliminate sleep apnea in obese individuals.
- Age
Older individuals are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea because the body naturally becomes less resistant to fragmentation of the airway. This means that the muscles in the airway may become less effective at keeping the airway open, leading to obstructions and apneas during sleep.
Older individuals may also have other underlying health conditions, such as obesity or heart disease, that increase the risk of sleep apnea. Treatment options, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy or lifestyle changes, can help improve sleep quality and overall health in older adults.
- Gender
Men are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea than women due to the physical differences in throat anatomy. They tend to have narrower airways and thicker necks than women, increasing their risk of developing sleep apnea.
Additionally, men are more likely to have excess weight in their upper bodies, further contributing to airway narrowing during sleep. However, it is important to note that women can also develop sleep apnea, particularly after menopause or if they have certain medical conditions.
- Genetics
Certain genetic factors can contribute to the likelihood of developing sleep apnea. Certain physical traits, such as the size and shape of the airway and facial structure, can be inherited and may increase the risk of sleep apnea.
For example, individuals with a small jaw, narrow airway, or larger neck circumference may be more susceptible to sleep apnea. Also, genetic mutations can cause sleep apnea, such as mutations in the serotonin receptor gene regulating sleep and breathing.
- Nasal Congestion
Obstructive sleep apnea can be caused by sinus issues or allergies that lead to a swollen nasal passage. Nasal congestion often leads to a decrease in the size of the airway, contributing to the development of obstructive sleep apnea.
Managing any nasal congestion or allergies is important for obstructive sleep apnea treatment. Treatment options for nasal congestion may include nasal decongestants, antihistamines, saline nasal sprays, or allergy shots. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Sleep apnea can cause various symptoms in your body. It is important to identify the cause of your disorder to treat it accordingly. While there is no cure for sleep apnea, several treatments can help reduce the symptoms and improve sleep quality.
Treatment options include lifestyle changes, mouthpieces or breathing devices, and surgery. No matter your chosen treatment plan, it is important to consult a doctor to ensure the best possible outcome. If you think you may be suffering from sleep apnea, seek medical treatment before it becomes severe.
