Sleep apnea: know what it is and what its causes are

They are many people worldwide who have suffered in your life some kind of complication when it comes to resting, either insomnia or even the so mentioned Sleep apnea.

But what exactly is sleep apnea? What are its causes and consequences? What are your symptoms?

If you are snoring at night, getting up sleepy and in a bad mood and even having lapses of forgetfulness, this article may interest you. We tell you all the details of the sleep apnea.

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The Greek word apnea means without air. As defined in the same National Library of Medicine of the United States, the obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a problem that occurs when the airways narrow or partially block, causing the person to stop breathing when asleep.

Periods can last from several seconds to minutes and can occur up to more than 30 times in an hour, and occurs more frequently in men than in women. In addition, it can occur in children between 3 and 6 years old more often.

Causes

Although this problem is quite mentioned among the reasons that cause bad rest, the truth is that it is not usually discussed why it occurs, what are the causes of sleep apnea.

When sleeping the muscles of the body relax and with it also those that support the throat open for air to enter the lungs. Although despite this relaxation oxygen can pass in the same way, in those people who have a narrower throat, it can cause the closing of the tissues and the blockage of the airway, causing apnea.

Other situations that can cause this sleep disorder are forms of the palate that cause the collapse of the respiratory system; lower jaw shorter than upper; large tongue that blocks breathing; obesity; large tonsils; be over 40 years old; smoke; having family members who have suffered apnea; nasal obstructions; allergies, among others.

Sleep apnea: symptoms

There are several signs that can show that the person is suffering from apnea episodes.

Loud snoring: It is caused by air leaking through the narrowed or blocked airway, and is usually interrupted by a long period of silence, followed by huffing. In any case, snoring is not always synonymous with apnea, so it will be necessary to consult a doctor.

Headache. Even if you fall asleep and do stretching exercises to avoid headaches, apnea headaches are often difficult to treat and appear mostly in the morning.

Wake up sleepy. No matter how many hours a person sleeps, those with apnea usually wake up tired. They even tend to feel sleepy for much of the day and fall asleep in different places, including at work.

Bad mood. Being irritable, impatient and in a bad mood is usually another symptom of apnea.

I forget. Having forgetfulness episodes, and not remembering certain things during the day is also something to keep in mind.

Even, it can cause in some cases a higher percentage of death from sudden sleep apnea, as well as heart disease.

Also, this Sleep disorder can cause depression, high blood pressure, hyperactivity especially in children, poor performance at work and study, anxiety, among others.

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Treatments

Although each person and case is particular, so they will have to make a medical consultation where the diagnosis and adequate treatment will be made so that people with apnea can keep the airways open, achieving the passage of air; There are some tips that can help you avoid episodes:

– Do not consume alcoholic beverages before sleep.

– Avoid sleep on your back, but take a side position.

– If the person has extra kilos it will be necessary lose weight.

– Increase physical activity. According to various studies, this is associated with a lower risk of obstructive sleep apnea

– In some cases the use of CPAP sleep mask (continuous positive air pressure device). It reduces the cases of apnea and helps to be more rested.

Source: United States National Library of Medicine, Medline Plus, ABC, FDA U.S Food & Drug