Is your snoring affecting your relationship?

You have tried almost everything to stop snoring but nothing has been effective. Now, Its reached the point that your partner’s nights are turning into nigh tmares and you feel guilty about it. 

Sleep Apnea, is the inability to rest properly. A sleep disorder where your breathing becomes irregular while sleeping. Leading to poor oxygen supply to the brain and no quality sleep. If you’re careless about it then it might turn into heart disease and diabetes. 

In this blog, we will explore the symptoms, types, risk factors, and treatments for sleep apnea to help you understand this condition better.

What is Sleep Apnea? Technically

Sleep apnea is a disorder where breathing pauses during sleep due to blocked airways or a lack of respiratory effort. These pauses, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and occur multiple times throughout the night. Preventing deep, restorative sleep.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can present in various ways, but the most common symptoms include:

Nighttime Symptoms:

• Loud snoring, often noticed by a partner
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Pauses in breathing observed by others
• Frequent awakenings or restlessness
• Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

Daytime Symptoms:

• Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
• Difficulty concentrating and forgetfulness
• Morning headaches
• Mood changes, such as irritability or depression
• Decreased libido

Because these symptoms may be mild or mistaken for other conditions, many people with sleep apnea remain undiagnosed.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three main types of sleep apnea. Why do you need to understand this – different kind of sleep apnea require specific treatments. 

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

It is the most common form. Here, the muscles at the back of the throat relax excessively. Causing a temporary blockage of the airway, resulting in repeated breathing interruptions during sleep.

2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

Here, your brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. There is no airway blockage, but breathing pauses occur due to a lack of effort.

3. Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome

It is a combination of OSA and CSA. A complex syndrome that arises when someone being treated for OSA develops CSA-like symptoms.

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea, including:

1. Physical and Genetic Factors:

• Being overweight or obese
• Having a thick neck circumference
• A narrow airway or enlarged tonsils/adenoids
• Family history of sleep apnea

2. Lifestyle Factors:

• Smoking (increases inflammation and fluid retention in the airway)
• Alcohol and sedative use (relax throat muscles excessively)
• Poor sleep hygiene and irregular sleep schedules

3. Medical Conditions:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Diabetes
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Chronic nasal congestion

Recognizing these risk factors and addressing them through lifestyle changes can reduce the severity of sleep apnea or prevent it altogether.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

Fortunately, sleep apnea is treatable. The right treatment depends on the severity and type of sleep apnea.

1. Lifestyle Changes

For mild cases, making simple lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve symptoms:

• Weight loss: Losing excess weight can reduce airway obstruction.
• Sleeping position: Sleeping on the side instead of the back prevents airway collapse.
• Avoiding alcohol and sedatives: These relax throat muscles, worsening the condition.
• Maintaining good sleep hygiene: Regular sleep schedules and proper sleep environments can improve rest quality.

2. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) Therapy

CPAP therapy is the most common treatment for moderate to severe OSA. It involves wearing a mask that delivers continuous airflow to keep the airway open. Though highly effective, some people find CPAP machines uncomfortable and may need time to adjust.

3. Oral Appliances

For those who cannot tolerate CPAP, oral devices designed to keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw and tongue may be an alternative. These are custom-made by dentists specializing in sleep medicine.

4. Surgery

In cases where structural issues cause airway obstruction, surgery may be an option. Common surgical treatments include:

• Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Removal of excess tissue in the throat.
• Tonsillectomy or Adenoidectomy: Recommended for children with enlarged tonsils blocking airflow.
• Genioglossus Advancement (GA): Adjusts tongue positioning to prevent airway collapse.
• Inspire Therapy: An implantable device that stimulates airway muscles to prevent obstruction.

5. Adaptive Servo-Ventilation (ASV)

For central sleep apnea, ASV devices regulate breathing patterns by adjusting airflow based on real-time needs.

Complications of Untreated Sleep Apnea

If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to:

• High blood pressure and increased risk of heart disease
• Type 2 diabetes due to insulin resistance
• Stroke and other neurological issues
• Depression and anxiety
• Increased risk of accidents due to daytime drowsiness

This is why it is crucial to seek medical help if you suspect you have sleep apnea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can sleep apnea be cured permanently?

There is no universal cure for sleep apnea but it is treatable. You can manage the symptoms through lifestyle changes and CPAP therapy. However, you can opt for surgery, if your doctor finds a need for structural change. 

2. How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

When your partner points out your loud snoring, you can consider going for a checkup. Other symptoms include gasping for air during sleep, excessive daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches. A sleep study (polysomnography) is the most reliable way to confirm the diagnosis.

3. Can children have sleep apnea?

Yes, children can have sleep apnea. It is often due to enlarged tonsils or obesity. Pediatric sleep studies and treatments, such as tonsil removal or CPAP therapy, can help manage the condition.

Final Thoughts

Sleep Apnea is ignored more than often. People don’t realize that it’s important to get a healthy sleep. Not sleeping well can affect your daytime energy, work, and subsequently relationships. Feeling tired all the time. If your partner shows a concern towards your snoring then it is your duty to treat this condition. Consulting My Dental Touch to explore personalized treatment options for better sleep. We have experienced staff who will help you.