About
leep apnea is a condition in which a person’s airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing them to wake up multiple times throughout the night. This can lead to chronic fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and an increased risk of other health problems such as high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, and depression.
There are two main types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is caused by a physical blockage in the airway, typically due to excess tissue in the throat or a malfunctioning airway muscle.
- Central sleep apnea (CSA) is caused by a problem with the brain’s ability to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, difficulty staying asleep, and excessive daytime sleepiness.
Risk factors for sleep apnea include obesity, being over the age of 40, having a family history of the condition, and smoking.
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, it is important to see a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment.