Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts. Individuals with this condition experience pauses in breathing, or very shallow breaths, which can last from a few seconds to minutes and occur many times an hour. Untreated, sleep apnea increases the risk of severe, potentially fatal, health complications.
Immediate Dangers of Sleep Apnea
During sleep apnea episodes, the brain briefly wakes the body to resume breathing. These repeated breathing pauses lead to a sudden drop in blood oxygen levels. This immediate strain on the cardiovascular system can trigger cardiac events, such as irregular heartbeats or a heart attack.
Fragmented sleep and chronic oxygen deprivation cause severe daytime fatigue and impaired cognitive function. This impairment increases the risk of accidents, particularly motor vehicle crashes. Untreated sleep apnea also increases the risk for workplace incidents and other accidents requiring quick reactions.
Long-Term Health Consequences
Repeated drops in oxygen and surges in blood pressure during sleep apnea contribute to a range of chronic health conditions. One significant consequence is chronic hypertension, or high blood pressure, which can become resistant to standard treatments. This persistent elevation places continuous stress on the heart and blood vessels.
Sleep apnea also increases the risk of stroke. The chronic strain on the cardiovascular system can also lead to heart failure and coronary artery disease.
Beyond cardiovascular issues, sleep apnea is closely linked to metabolic disorders. It can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes or worsen existing cases, as the body’s ability to use insulin effectively is impaired. The condition is also associated with metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions including increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Additionally, sleep apnea can lead to or exacerbate liver problems, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Help
Recognizing sleep apnea symptoms is an important step toward managing the condition. Common indicators include loud and persistent snoring, often reported by a bed partner. Episodes of gasping, choking, or snorting during sleep are also frequently observed.
Individuals with sleep apnea often experience excessive daytime sleepiness, regardless of how much time they spend in bed. Other symptoms include morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and irritability. If these symptoms are present, particularly loud snoring combined with daytime fatigue, seeking a medical diagnosis is advisable.
A definitive diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, known as polysomnography. This test monitors various bodily functions during sleep, such as:
Brain activity
Eye movements
Heart rate
Breathing patterns
Oxygen levels
This comprehensive evaluation helps determine the severity and type of sleep apnea, guiding appropriate treatment strategies.
Effective Treatment and Risk Reduction
Managing sleep apnea effectively can mitigate its risks and improve overall health. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is a widely used and effective treatment. CPAP devices deliver a constant stream of air through a mask worn during sleep, keeping the airway open and preventing breathing pauses.
Oral appliances, custom-fitted by a dentist, can help by repositioning the jaw and tongue to maintain an open airway. Lifestyle modifications also play a role in reducing sleep apnea severity. These include weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime, and changing sleeping positions, such as sleeping on one’s side.
Surgical options may be considered to address anatomical obstructions in the airway. Consistent adherence to prescribed treatments, especially CPAP therapy, can reduce the immediate dangers and long-term health consequences. This commitment to treatment can improve a person’s prognosis and enhance their quality of life.