Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Causes and Treatments

I'm a French-born physician and medical director, having completed my schooling and practiced in France before settling in Quebec. Today, I'd like to share with you some information about sleep apnea, a common but often under-diagnosed condition that can have serious health consequences.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, can last from a few seconds to over a minute, and occur dozens to hundreds of times a night.

Types of sleep apnea

There are three main types of sleep apnea:

1Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA): The most common form, caused by a blockage of the upper airway.

2.central sleep apnea: due to a signalling problem from the brain to the muscles responsible for breathing.

3Mixed apnea: A combination of the two previous types.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Symptoms may vary, but the most common include:

- Loud, regular snoring

- Respiratory pauses observed by a third party

- Night-time awakenings accompanied by a feeling of suffocation

- Excessive daytime sleepiness

- Morning headaches

- Concentration difficulties and mood disorders

Causes and risk factors

Causes of sleep apnea may include:

-Overweight: Extra adipose tissue can obstruct the airways.

-Anatomy: A large tongue, enlarged tonsils or narrow palate can contribute to obstruction.

-Age: Sleep apnea is more common in the elderly.

-Gender: Men are more likely to suffer, although women's risk increases after the menopause.

-Family history: A family history of sleep apnea may increase the risk.

Associated Complications

Sleep apnea is not limited to sleep disturbances. It can also be associated with cardiovascular risks and other serious complications:

-Hypertension: Frequent interruptions to breathing can lead to an increase in blood pressure.

-Heart disease: Sleep apnea increases the risk of heart disease, including heart attacks and arrhythmias.

-Depression: Sleep disturbance and chronic fatigue can contribute to mood disorders and depression.

-Urinary disorders: Sleep apnea is sometimes associated with urinary disorders, such as nocturia (frequent need to urinate at night).

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of sleep apnea requires a clinical evaluation and a sleep test, called polysomnography, which measures various physiological parameters during the night, or a home sleep study (cardio respiratory polygraphy).

Treatments

Treatment options vary according to the severity of the condition:

1.lifestyle modifications: weight loss, smoking cessation and alcohol avoidance.

2Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) devices: keep the airways open by supplying a constant flow of air.

3Oral appliances: Dental devices that help keep the airways open.

4Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove obstructions.

Conclusion

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can significantly affect quality of life and overall health. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

For more information or to book an appointment, please visit allodocteur.ca.