Sleep Apnea: Diagnosis and Management of Breathing Disorders During Sleep
Exhaustive guide to sleep apnea covering the types of sleep apnea including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea, and mixed sleep apnea, the risk factors including obesity, age, and anatomical factors, the symptoms including loud snoring, witnessed apneas, daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches, the diagnostic process including sleep studies (polysomnography), treatment options including continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), oral appliances, and surgery, and the health consequences of untreated sleep apnea including cardiovascular disease.
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Introduction
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. It is associated with significant health consequences and is often undiagnosed.
Types of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, caused by the collapse of the upper airway during sleep. Central sleep apnea is caused by the brain failing to signal the muscles to breathe.
Health Consequences
Untreated sleep apnea increases the risk of hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cognitive impairment.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea is a treatable condition with significant health implications. Positive airway pressure therapy is the most effective treatment.