Sleep Apnea: The Hidden Danger of Interrupted Breathing

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes individuals to stop breathing for brief periods during sleep. This repeated interruption in breathing can lead to severe health consequences, including hypertension, stroke, heart failure, and even death.

What Happens During Sleep Apnea?

When a person with sleep apnea stops breathing, their heart rate slows down, reducing blood flow to vital organs. This lack of oxygen can cause the heart to work harder, leading to increased blood pressure. As the person involuntarily wakes up to resume breathing, their heart rate accelerates, further increasing blood pressure.

Emotional Changes

1. Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations can cause emotional ups and downs. Share your feelings with loved ones or a healthcare professional.
2. Morning Sickness: Nausea and vomiting, often worse in the morning, are common symptoms. Stay hydrated, eat small meals, and rest when needed.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are two main types of sleep apnea:

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, OSA occurs when the soft tissues at the back of the throat collapse, blocking the airway.
2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): This type is caused by a disturbance in the brain’s respiratory control center, resulting in a lack of signals to breathe.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

OSA is often caused by:

– Collapse of soft tissues at the back of the throat
– Obesity
– Enlarged tonsils or adenoids

CSA is often linked to:

– Underlying diseases of the nervous system, such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or stroke
– Certain heart, lung, or kidney diseases

Managing Sleep Apnea

Damage to the semicircular canals can cause serious problems with balance and equilibrium. This can also affect hearing, as the semicircular canals are located in the vestibular portion of the ear.

Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS)

Treatment options include:

– Nasal decongestants for mild OSA
– Weight loss, which can be challenging due to slow metabolism
– Breathing exercises to strengthen throat muscles
– Positive air pressure therapy, which involves wearing a mask during sleep to receive continuous air pressure

Don’t ignore the warning signs of sleep apnea. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.