What is sleep apnea?
A syndrome still too unknown!
Sleep apnea syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a respiratory disorder characterized by the closure of the upper airways during sleep, obstructing the passage of air and caused by the relaxation of the tongue and throat muscles. This closure leads to respiratory pauses that typically last from 10 to 30 seconds. These pauses occur several times a night, causing a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood.
What is sleep apnea?
A syndrome still too unknown!
Sleep apnea syndrome and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a respiratory disorder characterized by the closure of the upper airways during sleep, obstructing the passage of air and caused by the relaxation of the tongue and throat muscles. This closure leads to respiratory pauses that typically last from 10 to 30 seconds. These pauses occur several times a night, causing a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood.
Epworth test
An Epworth test measures the general level of daytime sleepiness through simple, though non-scientific, questions. This test indicates whether a thorough evaluation is warranted in order to diagnose a sleep disorder.
The cycle of sleep apnea.
This cycle can repeat more than thirty times during the night, fragmenting normal sleep and resulting in significant daytime drowsiness.
Symptoms
- Drowsiness
- Headaches
- Fatigue during the day
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Feeling of non-restorative sleep
- Excessive fatigue upon waking
- Memory lapses
- Lack of concentration
- Depression
- Irritability
- Mood disturbances
- Decreased libido
- Reduced performance at work or school
- Snoring – often bothersome for the partner
- Sweating
- Palpitations
- Frequent awakenings
- Leg cramps
- Frequent movements
- Nightmares
- Frequent urge to urinate during the night
- Awakening with a feeling of choking
- Awakening with a sudden resumption of breathing
- Increased heart rate
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Embolism
- Heart attack and angina
- Higher risk of traffic or workplace accidents
“I snore a lot. Is this a sign that I suffer from sleep apnea?”
“Will my apnea worsen if I do not treat it?”
“I can never watch a movie until the end… Is it because of sleep apnea or another health issue?”
Diagnosis and treatment
If you think you suffer from sleep apnea, it is essential to undergo a test to accurately determine the diagnosis.
Polysomnography is the primary test used in this regard. However, in most cases, sleep cardio-respiratory polygraphy is very effective in determining if you have it. During one night, in the comfort of your bed, a small device records your respiratory rate, oxygen levels, pulse, thoracic and abdominal movements, as well as your snoring. This data will then be analyzed to scientifically determine if you suffer from sleep apnea.
CPAP machine
The home treatment that is probably the most effective and widely used for obstructive sleep apnea is the CPAP machine (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure).
A CPAP is a device that continuously delivers air into the airways through a tube and a mask that must be placed over the nose, mouth, or both simultaneously (full-face, nasal, oral, or nasal pillow).
The device is equipped with a turbine that propels air at a pressure predefined by your specialist. This projected air creates enough pressure to keep the tissues of the throat and mouth properly positioned, preventing the airways from collapsing or closing; thus significantly reducing apneas. Snoring is also nonexistent with the device in place.
The majority of those who use it regularly report feeling much better, primarily because they are less tired and regain their energy during the day. Their partners are also pleased, as they can finally get a good night’s sleep. We have a wide inventory of CPAP masks and devices available for sale in-clinic or online.
Am I at risk?
Obstructive sleep apnea can occur in men, women, and children. Contrary to popular belief, not all people who suffer from it are obese. While individuals with excess weight are at a higher risk, a person of normal weight can also suffer from sleep apnea. OSA is more common in men than in women, and the risk increases with age.
Those who suffer from sleep apnea do so for a variety of reasons. For example, their neck and tongue may relax too much, the shape of their skull or jaw may limit the airflow, or the aging process may cause the soft tissues of the neck to sag during sleep. Sleeping on one’s back, consuming alcohol in the evening, and taking medications in the evening are factors that can increase apneas and snoring during the night. Increased blood pressure can be caused by the presence of sleep apnea.
Take the test.
In the long term, sleep apneas can increase the risk of serious complications for the heart and brain. That’s why it is important to diagnose this condition as early as possible. The mission of the Summit Respiratory Health Clinic is to provide you with comprehensive care, starting with screening, education, diagnosis, and treatment of sleep apnea.