What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes interrupted breathing throughout the night. People with sleep apnea experience repeated pauses in breathing, which can last from a few seconds to over a minute. These breathing interruptions can occur hundreds of times per night, leading to poor oxygen supply to the brain and body.
The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when the muscles in the throat relax too much, blocking the airway. Another form, central sleep apnea, occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Because sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed, many people suffer for years without realizing their symptoms. Left untreated, it can lead to serious health problems, including heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Many people assume snoring is harmless, but loud, frequent snoring can be a major warning sign of sleep apnea. However, not everyone with sleep apnea snores, and some other common symptoms include:
- Pauses in breathing while sleeping (noticed by a partner or family member).
- Gasping or choking during sleep.
- Loud snoring, which may worsen over time.
- Daytime fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep.
- Morning headaches due to low oxygen levels at night.
- Difficulty concentrating or memory problems.
- Irritability, mood swings, or depression.
- Waking up frequently at night to urinate.
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking.
Because symptoms vary from person to person, some people remain undiagnosed for years. If you experience any of these symptoms, an ENT specialist can perform a thorough evaluation.
How Sleep Apnea Affects Your Health
Sleep apnea is more than just a nighttime inconvenience—it has a direct impact on overall health and well-being. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious medical conditions, including:
1. Increased Risk of Heart Disease and Stroke
Sleep apnea places a huge strain on the cardiovascular system. Interrupted breathing causes fluctuations in oxygen levels, which increases blood pressure and stress on the heart. Studies show that people with untreated sleep apnea have a higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and irregular heart rhythms.
2. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension)
The constant drop in oxygen levels triggers the body’s stress response, leading to chronic high blood pressure. This can damage blood vessels over time, increasing the risk of hypertension-related complications.
3. Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders
Sleep apnea is linked to insulin resistance and glucose intolerance, making it a risk factor for diabetes. Poor sleep quality affects the body’s ability to regulate blood sugar, increasing the likelihood of metabolic diseases.
4. Cognitive Decline and Memory Loss
People with sleep disorders are more likely to suffer from cognitive decline. Sleep apnea reduces the amount of oxygen reaching the brain, which can affect memory, concentration, and mental clarity. Studies suggest that long-term sleep apnea may increase the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Mood Disorders: Depression and Anxiety
Lack of quality sleep can significantly impact mental health. Many sleep apnea patients suffer from chronic fatigue, depression, and anxiety due to poor sleep. Treating sleep apnea often results in improved mood, better energy levels, and reduced stress.
6. Weight Gain and Obesity
Poor sleep affects hormones that regulate hunger, leading to increased appetite and weight gain. Sleep apnea also reduces metabolism, making it harder to lose weight. This creates a vicious cycle, as excess weight can worsen sleep apnea symptoms.
Who Is at Risk for Sleep Apnea?
Anyone can develop sleep apnea, but certain factors increase the risk:
- Being overweight or obese – Excess weight increases fat deposits around the neck, narrowing the airway.
- Having a thick neck circumference – A larger neck size may indicate narrowed airways.
- Being male – Men are more likely to develop sleep apnea than women.
- Age (40+) – Sleep apnea risk increases with age.
- Family history – Genetics play a role in airway structure and muscle control during sleep.
- Smoking and alcohol use – Smoking increases airway inflammation, and alcohol relaxes throat muscles, worsening symptoms.
- Nasal congestion or anatomical issues – Nasal blockage, nasal polyps, or a deviated septum can contribute to obstructed breathing.
If you fall into any of these risk categories, scheduling a sleep evaluation at Ventura ENT can help determine your risk level.
How Sleep Apnea Is Diagnosed
At Ventura ENT, Dr. Armin Alavi offers comprehensive sleep evaluations to diagnose sleep apnea. The process may include:
1. Sleep Study (Polysomnography)
A sleep study monitors oxygen levels, breathing patterns, brain activity, and heart rate overnight. This test can be done in a sleep lab or at home.
2. Physical Examination and Nasal Endoscopy
An ENT specialist will examine the airways, nasal passages, and throat to detect structural issues like nasal polyps or tonsil enlargement, which may be causing airway obstruction.
Sleep Apnea Treatment Options
At Ventura ENT, Dr. Alavi provides advanced treatment options to help patients breathe easier and sleep better.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- CPAP Therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) – A machine that keeps airways open using pressurized air.
- Oral Appliances (Mouthpieces) – Helps reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway blockage.
- Lifestyle Modifications – Weight loss, sleep position changes, and reducing alcohol use can help improve symptoms.
Surgical Options for Severe Cases
For patients who do not respond to CPAP therapy, surgical interventions may be needed.
- Surgical Snoring Solutions – Removes excess tissue in the throat to prevent airway collapse.
- Tonsillectomy – Removes enlarged tonsils that obstruct breathing.
- Coblation Surgery – A minimally invasive procedure to shrink throat tissues.
Take Control of Your Sleep Health
If you suspect you have sleep apnea, don’t wait to seek treatment. Ignoring symptoms can lead to serious health consequences.
At Ventura ENT, Dr. Armin Alavi offers personalized treatment plans to help you breathe better and sleep soundly.
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward better health and restful sleep!
Disclaimer
This blog is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content is meant to raise awareness about health-related topics and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical consultation. If you are experiencing any symptoms or have concerns about your health, please consult a licensed healthcare provider or an ENT specialist for proper evaluation and care.
