Do you get up in the morning feeling tired and lethargic even after more than 8 hours of sleep or do you find yourself waking up gasping for breath in the middle of the night? You may be suffering from sleep apnea. Here are a few important things to know about sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by irregular breathing and snoring patterns that ultimately results in apnea, which is the temporary stoppage of breathing. There could be several reasons for sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common form of sleep apnea. It usually develops when there is a block in the airway. In individuals that are overweight, too much weight in the soft tissues of the neck can weigh down the airway when lying down. The block may be caused by allergies, swollen adenoid glands or tonsils due to an infection, or an overbite which may result in the lower jaw pressing against the airway.
Central sleep apnea is another form of sleep apnea, which is caused by a neurological malfunction disrupting breathing cycles initiated by an imbalance in the blood’s oxygen and carbon-di-oxide levels.
The effects of sleep apnea include loss of concentration, headaches fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and stress-related insomnia. Sleep apnea episodes are usually preceded by loud snoring which may interrupt your partner’s sleep as well.
Sleep apnea can worsen other health conditions like respiratory disease, heart disease, and diabetes. Drops in oxygen levels caused by sleep apnea can cause chest pain and irregular heartbeat.
A sleep study can help confirm a diagnosis of sleep apnea and treatment options include avoiding alcohol, certain medications that relax the throat muscles such as antidepressants, use of a CPAP machine while sleeping which helps keep your airways open with a steady stream of pressurized air, and several other options.
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, book an appointment with the specialists at North Suffolk Neurology for a sleep study and to discuss your options.
North Suffolk Neurology is a full-service Neurology, Headache Medicine, and Sleep Medicine practice consisting of dedicated, experienced staff committed to helping our patients and their families maintain and improve their health. For all in-office appointments & inquiries, please call (631) 364-9119. You can also schedule a telehealth appointment by calling (631) 886-4571.
