Sleep Apnea When You Can't Breathe While You're Asleep

Sleep apnea which is also sometimes known as apnoea, is a disorder that consists of brief interruptions in your breathing, whereby it either becomes very shallow or even stops, while you are sleeping.
These interruptions are called apneas, which usually last from 10 to 20 seconds or sometimes longer and they can also occur 20 or 30 times or more an hour.

People that suffer from this condition will partly wake up from a sleep as they try to catch a breath. When they get up in the morning they will probably not even realise that their sleep has been disturbed, although because of the broken sleep pattern, they will usually find them selves getting a bit sleepy during the day. In some cases more than just a bit.

Different Types of the Condition

There are two types of this condition, the most common one being Obstructive Sleep apnea, more commonly referred to as OSA, the other one being Central Sleep apnea, known as CSA. In certain cases there have been people who have suffered from both types.

Obstructive sleep apnea is caused by the relaxing of the soft tissue at the back of the throat, which causes an obstruction to the upper airway. central sleep apnea is known as a neurological condition, which interrupts the normal signals to the brain that controls our breathing.

What are the Symptoms?

· Interruptions of breathing and gasping for air
· Loud Snoring
· Excessive daytime sleepiness
· Falling asleep during the day
· Headaches in the morning
· Problem

trying to concentrate
· Changes in ones mood
· Changes in behaviour
· Obesity
· Increased heart rate
· Anxiety
· Depression
· Irritability
· Sore throat when waking up
· Low sex drive
· A lack of energy

Can it be Treated?

There are different methods of treatment for this disorder, depending of course on ones medical history and how severe their condition is. Most treatments will begin with a life style change, for example, cutting back or stopping drinking alcohol, taking prescribed medication, dieting, stopping smoking and taking up some form of exercise and weight loss program.

There are even special devices that can help people, including specially made pillows that allow sufferers to sleep in positions to relieve the condition.

In more severe cases, surgical procedures such as Nasal Surgery, Tonsillectomy, Maxillofacial Surgery or even Tracheostomy may be necessary. These procedures may carry a risk and a sleep study of the patient needs to be carried out after each procedure.
Untreated though Sleep apnea can be dangerous to your health, so if you think you may suffer from it, you should always consult your doctor.



By: Alex.W.Wilson