Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can affect people of all ages. This condition is characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep and can have three main forms: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and mixed sleep apnea.
In CSA, the brain does not send the necessary signals to breathe, leading to airway and chest muscle problems during sleep. On the other hand, OSA occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked, reducing the flow of air into the lungs. Symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, fatigue, daytime sleepiness, headaches, and memory loss.
People over the age of 60 are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea due to physiological changes that weaken the respiratory system. Overweight individuals may accumulate fat around their airways, leading to snoring and sleep apnea. Alcohol and tobacco use can also contribute to this condition by relaxing throat tissues and causing airway blockages.
Inactive individuals are more likely to develop this disorder as they tend to be overweight or obese due to a sedentary lifestyle. Regular exercise can help reduce this risk by strengthening lung function and improving overall muscle tone. Additionally, conditions such as chronic nasal obstruction, tonsil inflammation, and tongue enlargement can increase the likelihood of developing this syndrome.
Individuals with type 2 diabetes are at a higher risk of developing this disorder as well if they are overweight or obese. Genetic factors can also play a role in its development with certain gene mutations increasing the likelihood of developing it.
Treatment for this disorder typically involves using a CPAP positive pressure ventilator that helps maintain constant pressure in the upper airway during sleep
