When someone learns they may or do have sleep apnea many questions arise. Getting clear and concise answers to your questions is important so you understand what may be causing it and your treatment options. Of course you should always discuss your concerns with your doctor, but here the answers to several frequently asked questions about sleep apnea.
Q. What is sleep apnea?
A. Sleep apnea is a condition in which a person actually stops breathing for a short period of time while sleeping. There are three categories of sleep apnea which are obstructive, central, and mixed. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common of these three and is caused by some type of obstruction of breath in the airway.
Q. What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
A. There are several different symptoms when it comes to sleep apnea. Some people with sleep apnea will awaken several times a night gasping for air. Other people don’t wake up at all but if your partner comments on your loud and sporadic snoring you may have sleep apnea. During waking hours you may experience frequent morning headaches, tiredness throughout the day, irritability, and inability to concentrate. Realistically, if you snore you should see your doctor to ensure it isn’t’ sleep apnea.
Q. I think I have sleep apnea, what should I do?
A. If you think you have sleep apnea see your doctor. They can schedule you for a polysomnogram which is a type of sleep test which can determine if you have sleep apnea. If it is determined that you have sleep apnea your doctor and sleep specialist will then determine what type it is and the best course of action for your treatment.
Q. Is OSA (obstructive sleep apnea) dangerous?
A. OSA is harmful to your health in both the short and long term. Immediate effects of sleep apnea include frequent morning headaches, tiredness throughout the day, irritability, and inability to concentrate. Long term affects may include heart attack and stroke. Not getting enough oxygen while you sleep requires your heart to work harder. People with OSA are also much more likely to get into car accidents because they are never fully rested.
Q. What are the treatments available for sleep apnea?
A. There are several treatment options available, but what works for you will depend on the type of sleep apnea you have, the severity of it, and what causes it. Some treatments include lifestyle change (diet, stop smoking), dental appliances, surgery, or the use of a CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machine. You and your doctor will needs to determine which treatment option is best for you.
Rudy Watkins writes about causes, treatments and other sleep apnea statistics for the Apnea Guide website. For more helpful information and to sign up for our free newsletter, visit http://www.apneaguide.com
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