Sleep apnea can be a worrisome concern for many – and for many reasons. This sleep disorder can be a catalyst for secondary medical conditions, or become the secondary condition. The Canadian Lung Association provides detailed and useful information concerning sleep apnea, its causes and treatment options, and lifestyle changes.
What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
The most common type of sleep apnea is called Obstructive Sleep Apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea is characterized by short breaks in breathing while sleeping. The apnea progresses as your sleep deepens, and continues throughout a night’s sleep.
When one first relaxes into sleep, it seems restful - breathing is quiet and calm. Soon, snoring begins, and it becomes progressively louder alongside one’s breathing, as it becomes increasingly laboured. It is at this time that the airway becomes partially blocked, and as the apnea cycle or ‘events’ begin and continue, the airway may block completely, keeping air from the lungs at varied periods of time.
What are the Causes and Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
The Canadian Lung Association lists key factors for those at risk of acquiring obstructive sleep apnea, and other sleep apneas. These risk factors include: being overweight, being male, having a larger neck, large tonsils or a recessed chin, or if an apnea disorder is common or has occurred for other family members.
The Canadian Lung Association further informs of apnea symptoms, among them are sleepiness, memory and concentration difficulties, and being uncharacteristically irritable and tired.
What is the Course Of Treatment and/Or Management For Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)?
Exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and diet are keys in managing apnea symptoms, whether it be obstructive sleep apnea, or apnea of another type. Those with this sleep disorder will often use Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine and mask, while sleeping.
The CPAP machine is coupled with a mask with tubing attached that adjusts to fit over the nose, to be used while sleeping. The tubing delivers a pre-determined, individualized level of air pressure and regulated the flow of air to one’s airway, to help ensure that the airway stays open.
Visit your doctor for further information, or read more about the CPAP machine and other treatment options for less severe apneas, by visiting the Canadian Lung Association online.
Can Obstructive Sleep Apnea Be Prevented?
The most effective preventative methods for this sleep disorder are healthy weight maintenance, consuming a healthy diet, and partaking in regular exercise. If you have been diagnosed with apnea and are receiving treatment (such as using a CPAP) continue this treatment, and your healthy lifestyle habits.
Source:
The Canadian Lung Association, accessed March 7, 2011.
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