Sleep apnea is a chronic and potentially severe sleep disorder that affects an estimated 18 million adults in the United States. It occurs when breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep — sometimes hundreds of times per night and often for a minute or more. These pauses prevent people from reaching the deep, restorative stages of sleep, leading to persistent fatigue, poor concentration and a diminished quality of life.
However, the dangers of sleep apnea go far beyond feeling tired. When left untreated, sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke and other severe health conditions.
Types of sleep apnea
There are two main types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): The most common form of OSA occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax excessively, narrowing or closing the airway during sleep despite the body’s efforts to breathe.
- Central sleep apnea (CSA): Less common, CSA occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Although episodes of choking, gasping or snoring may occur throughout the night, many people don’t recall them, making sleep apnea easy to miss and often undiagnosed.
The health impact
Sleep apnea disrupts normal breathing, reducing oxygen levels in the blood and placing added stress on the cardiovascular system. Over time, this stress can trigger or worsen severe conditions, including:
- Heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Type 2 diabetes
- Depression and anxiety
Another primary concern is excessive daytime sleepiness, which can increase the risk of accidents — particularly while driving. Studies show that people with untreated obstructive sleep apnea are up to three times more likely to be involved in a car crash.
Common symptoms and risk factors
Sleep apnea can affect anyone, but certain factors increase the likelihood of developing the condition. You may be at higher risk if you:
- Are overweight or obese
- Are male
- Are over the age of 40
- Have a family history of sleep apnea
- Have nasal congestion from allergies, a deviated septum or sinus issues
Signs and symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud, chronic snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep (often reported by a partner)
- Gasping or choking during the night
- Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat
- Morning headaches
- Daytime fatigue, drowsiness or difficulty focusing
- Waking frequently during the night
When to see a doctor
Talk to your health care provider if you experience ongoing sleep problems, daytime fatigue or if someone has noticed unusual breathing patterns while you sleep. Sleep apnea is highly treatable — diagnosis and treatment can dramatically improve your health, safety and overall quality of life.
This content was provided by the Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Centers.
Learn more about how Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Centers can help you navigate the complexities of sleep apnea and ensure you receive the best care possible.
