What to Know Diagnosed With Sleep

Apnea What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes you to stop breathing for short periods of time while you sleep. These pauses can last for a few seconds or even a few minutes. They can occur several times an hour, and they can disrupt your sleep and leave you feeling tired and irritable during the day.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:

* Loud snoring

* Gasping or choking during sleep

* Daytime sleepiness

* Fatigue

* Headaches

* Irritability

* Difficulty concentrating

* Memory loss

* Erectile dysfunction (in men)

What are the risk factors for sleep apnea?

The following factors can increase your risk of developing sleep apnea:

* Being overweight or obese

* Having a large neck circumference

* Being male

* Being over the age of 40

* Having a family history of sleep apnea

* Smoking

* Drinking alcohol

* Using sedatives or tranquilizers

How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

Sleep apnea is diagnosed with a sleep study, which is a test that records your breathing, heart rate, and oxygen levels while you sleep. The study is usually done in a sleep lab, but it can also be done at home.

How is sleep apnea treated?

There are several different ways to treat sleep apnea, including:

* Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy: CPAP therapy is the most common treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask that fits over your nose and mouth and delivers pressurized air to your lungs.

* Oral appliance therapy: Oral appliance therapy involves wearing a device that fits in your mouth and holds your jaw in a forward position, which can help to keep your airway open.

* Surgery: Surgery may be an option for people who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy or oral appliance therapy. There are several different types of surgeries that can be used to treat sleep apnea, and the best option for you will depend on your individual case.

What are the complications of sleep apnea?

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to several complications, including:

* Heart disease

* Stroke

* Diabetes

* Obesity

* Depression

* Memory loss

* Death

How can I prevent sleep apnea?

There are several things you can do to help prevent sleep apnea, including:

* Maintaining a healthy weight

* Getting regular exercise

* Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed

* Sleeping on your side

If you think you may have sleep apnea, talk to your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment can help to prevent serious complications.