Sleep apnea is a serious sleep-related breathing disorder that affects many adults and can significantly impact overall health and quality of life. The most common types are Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA). In OSA, breathing repeatedly stops and starts due to partial or complete airway collapse during sleep. In CSA, breathing pauses occur because the brain does not consistently send signals to the muscles responsible for breathing.
Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to fatigue, poor concentration, cardiovascular disease, and other long-term health concerns. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment can greatly improve sleep quality, energy levels, and daytime function.
Did you know…
Sleep apnea affects millions of adults and often goes undiagnosed. Risk factors include excess weight, airway anatomy, certain medical conditions, and neurologic disorders. Some patients may have a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea, known as complex or mixed sleep apnea.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have sleep apnea?
Common signs of sleep apnea include loud snoring, pauses in breathing, gasping or choking during sleep, and non-restorative rest. Daytime symptoms may include excessive sleepiness, morning headaches, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue.
What should I do if I think I have sleep apnea?
If you experience symptoms of sleep apnea, schedule an evaluation with a pulmonologist or sleep specialist. Your physician will review your symptoms, medical history, and may recommend diagnostic testing, such as an overnight sleep study, to confirm the diagnosis.
What treatments are available for sleep apnea?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is commonly treated with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy, which helps keep the airway open during sleep. Central sleep apnea may require additional therapies, such as oxygen supplementation or advanced breathing support. Your physician will develop a personalized treatment plan to best support your sleep and overall health.
