Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea - OSA or Obstructive Sleep Apnea is characterized by repetitive episodes
of cessation of airflow during sleep. Muscles in the airway tend to relax
during sleep which can cause a narrowing of the airway which in turn makes
it difficult to breath. Over time, these breath holding episodes will
cause an arousal in the brain in order to restore normal breathing efforts.
This cycle can occur over and over throughout the night causing fragmented
sleep which will result in non restorative sleep and daytime sleepiness.
What Causes OSA?
- weight gain
- alcohol consumption prior to bedtime
- sleeping pills
- smaller than normal jaw
- large tongue
- enlarged tonsils
- excessive tissue in the airway
Warning signs of OSA
- loud disruptive snoring
- pauses in breathing during sleep
- excessive daytime sleepiness
- unintentional napping
- difficulty with concentration
- morning headaches
Consequences of Untreated OSA
- high blood pressure
- heart attack
- heart failure
- stroke
- depression
- diabetes