Definition
Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by episodes of stopped breathing during sleep.
See also: Sleep disorders
Symptoms
It is important to emphasize that often, the person who has obstructive sleep apnea does not remember the episodes of apnea during the night. The predominant symptoms are usually associated with excessive daytime sleepiness due to poor sleep during the night. Often, family members, especially spouses, witness the periods of apnea. Symptoms that may be observed include:
- Loud snoring
- Periods of not breathing (apnea)
- Awakening not rested in the morning
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Definition
Sleep apnea is a condition characterized by episodes of stopped breathing during sleep.
See also: Sleep disorders
Symptoms
It is important to emphasize that often, the person who has obstructive sleep apnea does not remember the episodes of apnea during the night. The predominant symptoms are usually associated with excessive daytime sleepiness due to poor sleep during the night. Often, family members, especially spouses, witness the periods of apnea. Symptoms that may be observed include:
- Loud snoring
- Periods of not breathing (apnea)
- Awakening not rested in the morning
- Abnormal daytime sleepiness, including falling asleep at inappropriate times
- Morning headaches
- Recent weight gain
- Limited attention
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Causes
In normal conditions, the muscles of the upper part of the throat keep this passage open to allow air to flow into the lungs. These muscles usually relax during sleep, but the passage remains open enough to permit the flow of air. Some individuals have a narrower passage, and during sleep, relaxation of these muscles causes the passage to close, and air cannot get into the lungs. Loud snoring and labored breathing occur. When complete blockage of the airway occurs, air cannot reach the lungs.
For reasons that are still unclear, in deep sleep, breathing can stop for a period of time (often more than 10 seconds). These periods of lack of breathing, or apneas, are followed by sudden attempts to breathe. These attempts are accompanied by a change to a lighter stage of sleep. The result is ...
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Treatment
The goal is to keep the airway open to prevent apneas during sleep.
Weight management (or intentional weight loss) and avoiding alcohol and sedatives at bedtime may relieve sleep apnea in some individuals. If these measures are unsuccessful in stopping sleep apnea, continuous positive airway pressure ( CPAP ), a form of mechanical breathing assistance that involves the use of a specially-designed mask worn over the nose or nose and mouth at night, may be prescribed.
Mechanical devices inserted into the mouth at night to keep the jaw forward may help relieve symptoms due to mild to moderate cases.
Surgery to remove excess tissue at the back of the throat (uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or UPPP), to remove enlarged tonsils or adenoids ( tonsillectomy ), or to create an opening in the ...
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Other Names
Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome; Apnea - sleep apnea syndrome
Outlook (Prognosis)
When treated correctly, obstructive sleep apnea may be controlled. However, many persons are unable or unwilling to tolerate CPAP, and the syndrome continues.
Prevention
Losing weight and avoiding alcohol and sedatives may help some individuals. Children with very large tonsils and adenoids may develop sleep apnea and related problems. They should be evaluated to see whether they need to have their tonsils or adenoids removed.
See: Tonsillectomy
Exams and Tests
A complete medical history taken by a health care practitioner is the most important diagnostic tool. Often, a survey that asks a series of questions about daytime sleepiness, sleep quality, and bedtime habits is given.
A physical examination of the mouth, neck, and throat will be done. Other tests may include:
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Support Groups
Attending a support group with others who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea or related disorders may help persons adjust to their disease and adapt to the lifestyle changes necessary to treat it.
