Understanding Sleep Apnea

Understanding Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Sleep Apnea is a disorder characterized by episodic pauses in breathing during sleep that are at least 10 seconds in length and may occur dozens or even hundreds of times during the night. There are three types of sleep apnea.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when tissue of the upper airway collapses and airflow is blocked. The constricted site briefly opens and airflow resumes when the patient arouses with a cough, choke or snort. As the patient resumes a “restful” stage of sleep, the obstruction occurs again. This cycle is often repeated several times each hour, resulting in disturbed sleep and daytime sleepiness.

Central Sleep Apnea

Central Sleep Apnea gets its name from its connection with the Central Nervous System (The Brain). Central Sleep Apnea occurs when the patient's brain fails to initiate a breath thus, diminishing the quality of the patient's sleep.

Mixed Sleep Apnea

Mixed Sleep Apnea is a combination of Obstructive Sleep Apnea and Central Sleep Apnea.

Causes and Symptoms

Obesity, enlarged tonsils, enlarged tongue and other anatomical abnormalities are the most common causes for obstructive sleep apnea.

Signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include excessive daytime sleepiness, snoring, snorting or gasping, fatigue, irritability, headaches and loss of concentration.

Potential complications of sleep apnea include: high blood pressure, stroke, coronary artery disease, heart attack and heart failure.

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Understanding Sleep Disordered Breathing

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