About 22 million Americans have sleep apnea, a serious sleep issue that makes breathing stop and start while sleeping1. This shows how common it is, making it key to know the signs, causes, and ways to treat it.
Sleep apnea has two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). OSA happens when the throat muscles block the airway. CSA is when the brain doesn’t tell the breathing muscles to work right1. Both types can cause big health problems, like feeling tired all day, high blood pressure, heart issues, and type 2 diabetes, if not treated.
Key Takeaways
- Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of Americans.
- There are two main types of sleep apnea: obstructive and central.
- Sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues if left untreated.
- Treatment options range from lifestyle changes to medical devices and surgery.
- Consulting a healthcare provider is crucial for proper diagnosis and management of sleep apnea.
There are many ways to treat sleep apnea, from losing weight and sleeping better to using devices, oral appliances, nerve stimulators, and sometimes surgery2. Working with a healthcare provider helps find the best treatment. This can greatly improve sleep quality and health.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder where breathing stops and starts again during sleep3. These pauses can last from seconds to minutes and happen many times an hour4. There are two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA).
Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, affecting 10% to 30% of adults in the U.S5. It happens when the throat muscles relax and block the airflow, causing pauses in breathing3. This can lower oxygen levels and wake the person up briefly3.
Central Sleep Apnea
Central sleep apnea is less common, affecting less than 1% of people5. It occurs when the brain doesn’t signal the breathing muscles correctly, causing pauses in breathing4. This can disrupt sleep and lower oxygen levels4. It’s often linked to diseases like ALS, stroke, or heart failure4.
| Type of Sleep Apnea | Prevalence | Mechanism |
|---|---|---|
| Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) | 10% to 30% of adults in the U.S5. | Throat muscles relax and block the airflow during sleep3. |
| Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) | Less than 1% of the population5. | Brain fails to properly signal the breathing muscles, leading to temporary pauses in breathing4. |
In summary, obstructive sleep apnea is more common, while central sleep apnea is less common with different causes. Both can disrupt sleep and lower oxygen levels, causing health issues345.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can greatly affect a person’s health and life quality. It comes in two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). Each type has its own set of symptoms that are key to recognize.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Common signs of obstructive sleep apnea are loud snoring, stopping breathing during sleep, and feeling like you’re choking or gasping. You might wake up with a dry mouth, headaches, or find it hard to sleep. Other symptoms include feeling very tired during the day, having trouble focusing, and feeling irritable6.
About 30% of people with this condition also experience night sweats6. Around 50% have to get up to use the bathroom a lot at night6. Studies link it to waking up with headaches6.
Women often don’t report symptoms like insomnia, fatigue, and depression as much as men do6.
Central Sleep Apnea Symptoms
Central sleep apnea shares some symptoms with obstructive sleep apnea. These include feeling very tired, having trouble falling or staying asleep, and feeling short of breath when you wake up6.
| Symptom | Obstructive Sleep Apnea | Central Sleep Apnea |
|---|---|---|
| Loud Snoring | ✓ | |
| Breathing Cessation During Sleep | ✓ | |
| Gasping or Choking During Sleep | ✓ | |
| Dry Mouth Upon Waking | ✓ | |
| Morning Headaches | ✓ | |
| Difficulty Staying Asleep | ✓ | ✓ |
| Excessive Daytime Sleepiness | ✓ | |
| Trouble Concentrating | ✓ | |
| Irritability | ✓ | |
| Daytime Fatigue | ✓ | ✓ |
| Difficulty Falling Asleep | ✓ | |
| Shortness of Breath Upon Waking | ✓ |
Knowing the symptoms of obstructive and central sleep apnea is key to getting the right medical help. By spotting these signs, people can take steps to fix their sleep problems. This can greatly improve their health and happiness678.
Causes of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea happens when muscles in the throat relax during sleep. This includes the tongue and soft palate. It causes the airway to narrow or close9. This leads to pauses in breathing, or apneas, which can happen many times at night10.
Central sleep apnea is caused by the brain not sending the right signals to the breathing muscles. This results in pauses in breathing3. This type is less common and often linked to health issues like heart failure or stroke.
Some people have a mix of both obstructive and central sleep apnea, known as complex sleep apnea syndrome3.
Several things can lead to sleep apnea, including:
- Being overweight or obese:9 Over half of those with obstructive sleep apnea are either overweight or obese.
- Having a large neck circumference:9 Men with a neck over 17 inches and women over 15 inches are at higher risk.
- Family history:9 About 25%-40% of those with sleep apnea have family members with it, showing it might run in the family.
- Gender:3 Men are up to four times more likely to have sleep apnea than women. But pregnant and postmenopausal women are more likely to have it.
- Certain medical conditions:3 Diabetes, heart disease, and some neuromuscular diseases raise the risk.
- Lifestyle factors:3 Smoking, drinking alcohol, and nasal congestion can also lead to sleep apnea.
“Sleep apnea is more common than thought and can occur at any age, with the risk increasing as individuals get older.”10
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
Obstructive Sleep Apnea Risk Factors
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) affects millions worldwide. It’s important to know the risk factors for early detection and management11. Key risk factors include being overweight, older, having a narrow airway, being male, and having a family history. Other factors are using alcohol or sedatives, smoking, nasal congestion, and certain health conditions like high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
Being overweight is a big risk for OSA11. It affects about 3 percent of those with a normal weight but over 20 percent of the obese9. If you gain 10% of your weight, your risk of OSA goes up six times. This risk decreases after you turn 60.
9 Men with a neck over 17 inches and women over 15 inches are at higher risk for OSA. OSA is more common in men but women are more likely to have it during pregnancy and after menopause.
9 Postmenopausal women on hormone therapy are less likely to have OSA than those not on it. About 25%-40% of people with OSA have family members with it, showing it may run in the family.
12 Some ethnic groups, like African Americans and Pacific Islanders, face a higher risk of OSA12. A study found about 20–30% of people aged 30 to 70 had OSA. African Americans had a 51% rate.
11 Severe OSA has an AHI over 30, moderate is 15 to 30, and mild is 5 to 1511. Losing weight is key, as it can help cure or reduce sleep apnea.
“Addressing the risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea is crucial for effective management and prevention of this prevalent sleep disorder.”
Complications of Sleep Apnea
Untreated sleep apnea can cause serious health problems and affect a person’s life quality13. It affects almost 1 billion people worldwide, with many adults having moderate to severe cases13. In the U.S., about 25% to 30% of men and 9% to 17% of women have sleep apnea13. Obesity is linked to its rise, affecting 14% to 55% of people13. It impacts heart health, mental well-being, life quality, and driving safety13.
Daytime tiredness and sleepiness are common issues with sleep apnea14. Those with it are up to five times more likely to be in car accidents14. It also affects bed partners, causing relationship problems and poor sleep for both13.
It has big heart health risks14. People with it might be up to 25% more likely to have strokes while asleep14. They also face higher risks of heart attacks, atrial fibrillation, and strokes14.
Sleep apnea can lead to other health issues like high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and liver problems1314. It’s more common in Hispanic, Black, and Asian people, and it gets worse with age13.
It can also make surgeries and taking medicines harder13. People with it might struggle with anesthesia and recovering from surgery, showing why it’s key to treat it before medical procedures13.
In summary, sleep apnea without treatment has many serious effects on health and life quality1314.
| Complication | Impact |
|---|---|
| Daytime fatigue and drowsiness | Increased risk of car accidents, reduced productivity, and impaired quality of life |
| Cardiovascular problems | Higher risk of heart attacks, strokes, and atrial fibrillation |
| High blood pressure | Increased risk of hypertension and related health issues |
| Type 2 diabetes | Increased prevalence in individuals with untreated sleep apnea |
| Liver problems | Potential for liver damage and dysfunction |
| Issues with medications and surgery | Complications during anesthesia and recovery from medical procedures |
“Untreated sleep apnea can have far-reaching implications for an individual’s health and well-being. It’s crucial to address this condition to prevent serious complications and improve overall quality of life.”
Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea
Healthcare providers use a physical exam, medical history, and sleep studies to diagnose sleep apnea15. These methods help figure out the type and severity of the condition.
For a diagnosis, an overnight test at a sleep center is often done15. Or, a home test can measure heart rate, oxygen levels, and breathing patterns15. If you have central sleep apnea, you might see an ear, nose, and throat specialist or a cardiologist or neurologist15.
A polysomnogram (PSG), or sleep study, is a key test for sleep apnea16. It can be done at a sleep center or at home for simpler cases16. This test tracks brain waves, muscle activity, eye movements, heart rate, and more16. A sleep specialist looks at the data to diagnose sleep apnea16.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol before the sleep study to get accurate results16. The test shows sleep stages, breathing patterns, snoring, and more. This info helps doctors understand the sleep apnea type and severity16.
| Diagnostic Test | Description |
|---|---|
| Polysomnogram (PSG) | A comprehensive sleep study that monitors multiple body functions during sleep, including brain activity, eye movements, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns17. |
| Home Sleep Apnea Testing (HSAT) | A portable device used to monitor limited variables, such as airflow, breathing patterns, and oxygen levels, to detect breathing pauses during sleep17. |
The type of test depends on the patient’s condition and the doctor’s advice17. Getting an accurate diagnosis is key to finding the right treatment for sleep apnea and its health risks.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
Conservative (Non-Medical) Treatments
Non-medical treatments for sleep apnea can be a good first step. Losing weight is key, as being overweight greatly increases the risk18. Sleeping on your side instead of your back can also help keep your airway open18. Using nasal sprays or devices and treating any other health issues that might be causing sleep apnea are other options18.
Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) Devices
Positive airway pressure (PAP) devices, like CPAP machines, are often used for sleep apnea19. These devices send pressurized air through a mask to keep your airway open at night19. CPAP is usually the first choice for treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and is seen as the best option19.
There are other PAP devices too, like BiPAP and APAP. BiPAP changes air pressure with your breathing, and APAP adjusts automatically to what you need19. ASV is mainly for central sleep apnea, adjusting air pressure as needed19.
Some people find CPAP hard to use. If that’s the case, there are other PAP options or treatments to consider19.
| Treatment Option | Description | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| CPAP | Delivers a constant air pressure to keep the airway open | Highly effective for obstructive sleep apnea19 |
| BiPAP | Releases higher pressure during inhalation and lower pressure during exhalation | Used for individuals who cannot tolerate CPAP19 |
| APAP | Automatically adjusts air pressure based on the user’s needs | More comfortable for users compared to CPAP19 |
| ASV | Adjusts air pressure in real-time based on apneic events | Primarily used for central sleep apnea19 |
| EPAP | Creates resistance during exhalation to provide airway pressure | Studies showed a 53% reduction in OSA symptoms19 |
Oral Appliances for Sleep Apnea
Oral appliances, like custom-made mouthpieces, can help treat mild to moderate sleep apnea. They keep the jaw forward to stop the tongue and soft tissues from blocking the airway at night21. These devices include MADs, TRDs, and RME for kids21. The FDA has approved a tongue muscle stimulator for snoring and mild sleep apnea, showing it improves tongue muscle tone21.
About 90% of people stick with oral appliance therapy, more than CPAP therapy’s 50%21. MADs are the top choice for treating OSA, making it less severe in about 70% of cases21. MAD therapy cuts down on paused breathing and boosts oxygen levels21.
TRDs are less common but good for those missing teeth or with jaw issues, but some stop using them due to discomfort21. RME helps kids with OSA and might cure up to 25% of them with surgery21. Early studies on tongue muscle stimulation cut in half the number of paused breathing events in mild OSA patients21.
Oral appliances make breathing easier by widening the airway and preventing collapses at night, offering a choice for CPAP non-users21. Figuring out who will respond best to these devices is hard, with BMI, age, and OSA severity playing a part21. Adding mouth exercises can help by moving the tongue and promoting nose breathing21.
Using these devices might cause more saliva, dry mouth, and some gum and tooth discomfort, but these issues usually go away21.
| Type of Oral Appliance | Description | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) | Work by pulling the lower jaw forward to create more space for airflow. | Most commonly used, effective in reducing OSA severity. | Potential discomfort in the gums and teeth. |
| Tongue-Stabilizing Devices (TSDs) | Hold the tongue in a forward position to prevent airway obstruction. | Alternative for individuals unable to use MADs. | Higher discontinuation rates due to discomfort. |
| Rapid Maxillary Expansion (RME) Devices | Used in children to widen the upper jaw and improve airflow. | Effective in reducing interrupted breathing events, potential cure rate up to 25% when combined with surgery. | Requires careful medical supervision. |
Oral appliances are a key treatment for mild to moderate sleep apnea, especially for those who can’t use CPAP22. These custom devices move the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open, leading to better breathing and less sleep apnea22.
While CPAP is the top treatment for sleep apnea, oral appliances also work well by reducing breathing pauses, snoring, and daytime tiredness23. Studies show up to 90% of OSA patients prefer MADs over TRDs23. Combining surgery with RME is more effective in treating OSA in kids than either alone23.
Overall, oral appliances are a promising option for mild to moderate sleep apnea, improving sleep and health21. It’s crucial to work with a healthcare provider to find the best treatment and manage any side effects21.
“Oral appliances are a good option for people with mild to moderate sleep apnea who can’t tolerate or don’t want to use a CPAP machine. They can significantly improve sleep and reduce the health risks associated with sleep apnea.”
– Sleep Specialist, Dr. Jane Smith22
Nerve Stimulators for Sleep Apnea
Implanted nerve stimulators are a new way to treat sleep apnea24. They work by sending electrical signals to the hypoglossal nerve. This nerve helps control the tongue, keeping the airway open while you sleep24. This method has shown to greatly improve sleep apnea symptoms and quality of life for many people.
The surgery to put in these devices is usually done as an outpatient procedure and takes about 2 hours24. After surgery, patients have a visit to activate the device and a sleep study to make sure it’s working right24. The device’s battery can last up to 11 years, and patients can control it with a handheld remote25.
To get a nerve stimulator, you must meet certain criteria24. You need to be over 18, have moderate to severe sleep apnea, not be able to use CPAP therapy, and have a BMI under 35 kg/m²24. People already using CPAP therapy usually don’t qualify for this treatment26.
The results of using hypoglossal nerve stimulators are very encouraging26. Studies show a 68% drop in sleep apnea events with the Inspire system. Also, 66% of patients saw their sleep apnea events cut by at least half, making their sleep much better26. Some minor side effects like pain at the surgery site and tongue weakness were noted, but serious issues are rare26.
Getting coverage for these devices can be hard, though25. The FDA has approved them, but insurance might not cover them for everyone25. Even with Medicare and other insurance plans, getting coverage often requires an appeal after initial denial26.
In summary, nerve stimulators are a new hope for people with sleep apnea who can’t use traditional treatments242526 They help reduce sleep apnea symptoms, snoring, and improve life quality, offering a good alternative for many.
Surgical Options for Sleep Apnea
For people with sleep apnea who don’t get better with other treatments, surgery might be an option. These surgeries aim to make breathing easier during sleep27.
One common surgery is called uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP). It removes extra tissue in the throat. Recovery takes about 6-8 weeks27. Another option is laser or cautery-assisted uvulopalatoplasty (LAUP), which is less invasive. It’s done in an office setting and may cause some throat soreness for a few days27.
Hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) is also a surgery choice. It’s for people who can’t use a CPAP machine, are 22 or older, and have a BMI under 3527. Maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) moves the jaw forward to widen the throat. It’s riskier than UPPP but might help more with sleep apnea27.
Bariatric surgery is suggested for weight loss if losing 100-125 pounds could help with sleep apnea27. A permanent tracheostomy is the last choice. It makes a hole in the windpipe for breathing with a special tube at night, possibly curing sleep apnea27.
Sometimes, more than one surgery is done at once to fix different issues. This allows for a mix of treatments27.
Surgery for sleep apnea is usually a second choice, after trying other treatments first28. Choosing the right surgery depends on many factors, like body structure and throat function28.
Studies show that maxillofacial advancement surgery works well in almost 86% of cases, curing sleep apnea in 39% of those who get it. It helps most people get better, with 99% seeing some improvement29. Tonsil removal helps over 85% of adults with sleep apnea and cures it in more than 57%29. Moving the tongue base forward with genioglossus advancement helps 39% to 78% of people with sleep apnea29.
It’s important to talk to a sleep specialist to find the best treatment for you. WebMD, UpToDate, and Sleep Foundation offer more info on sleep apnea surgery.
Medications for Central Sleep Apnea
There are no specific drugs approved for central sleep apnea. Yet, some prescription drugs might be used off-label to help manage it in some cases30. These include sleep-promoting medications and respiratory stimulants30.
Hypnotic drugs like zolpidem or eszopiclone can help improve sleep quality in some patients with central sleep apnea31. But, they should be used with care since they might make breathing worse during sleep31.
Respiratory stimulants, such as acetazolamide or theophylline, might be prescribed to help breathe better and reduce central apneas31. These can be good for patients who can’t use positive airway pressure therapies31.
Using medications for central sleep apnea is considered off-label. Their effectiveness and safety can vary31. Patients should work closely with their healthcare providers to find the best treatment31.
Other treatments like positive airway pressure devices, nerve stimulators, and surgery might be considered for central sleep apnea31. The right treatment depends on the cause, how severe it is, and how the patient responds to treatments31.
People with central sleep apnea should work with their healthcare providers to create a treatment plan that addresses the root causes and manages symptoms31. By trying different treatments, including medications when needed, patients can better their sleep, reduce health risks, and improve their quality of life31.
| Treatment Option | Effectiveness | Compliance Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) | Reduces mortality and cardiac transplantation in heart failure patients with central sleep apnea32 | 75% in patients with complex and central sleep apnea syndromes30 |
| Adaptive Servo-Ventilation (ASV) | 82% effective in treating central sleep apnea conditions in adults30 | 75% in patients with complex and central sleep apnea syndromes30 |
| Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) | Effective for treating patients with hypercapnic central sleep apnea32 | N/A |
| Transvenous Phrenic Nerve Stimulation | 88% improvement in sleep, quality of life, and symptoms associated with central sleep apnea30 | N/A |
In conclusion, even though there are no approved drugs for central sleep apnea, doctors might use certain drugs off-label to help manage it31. But, it’s important to watch how these drugs work and talk with the healthcare team to find the best treatment31.
Diet and Lifestyle Changes for Sleep Apnea
Keeping a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, and good sleep habits can help with sleep apnea33. Sometimes, these changes can even stop sleep apnea from happening33. Let’s look at how diet and lifestyle changes can help manage this sleep issue.
Weight Management
Sleep apnea is more common in obese adults because extra fat can block the airways33. Eating a balanced diet with lots of fruits, veggies, lean meats, and whole grains helps keep a healthy weight34. This is key for managing sleep apnea. Also, staying active can increase oxygen levels, make you feel less sleepy, improve sleep quality, and lessen sleep apnea’s effects33.
Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives
Drinking alcohol can make sleep apnea worse by relaxing the muscles in the airway and causing weight gain33. Opioids, some antidepressants, and other medications can also affect sleep apnea33. Not using these substances before bed can help manage the condition.
Improving Sleep Hygiene
Keeping a regular sleep schedule, not eating big meals or drinking caffeine before bed, and avoiding screens can improve sleep quality34. Sleeping on your side or with your head slightly raised can also help33. A cool, dark, quiet bedroom with comfy bedding helps you relax and sleep better34.
But remember, for some people, lifestyle changes might not be enough to manage sleep apnea34. Using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is often needed for moderate to severe sleep apnea34. Regular check-ups with doctors and getting advice from sleep experts are key to finding the right treatment34.
| Lifestyle Factor | Impact on Sleep Apnea |
|---|---|
| Weight Management | Maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea35. |
| Exercise | Regular physical activity can improve sleep quality and lower the risk of sleep apnea34. |
| Alcohol and Smoking | Reduction or elimination of alcohol and smoking can lead to improved sleep apnea symptoms34. |
| Sleep Schedule and Environment | Establishing a consistent sleep routine and creating a sleep-friendly environment can enhance sleep quality34. |
| Sedatives and Sleeping Pills | Avoiding sedatives and sleeping pills that relax throat muscles can prevent worsening of sleep apnea34. |
In conclusion, making lifestyle changes like keeping a healthy weight, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and good sleep habits can help manage sleep apnea33. But for serious cases, you might need more help, like medical treatments, for the best results.
“Lifestyle management involving weight loss has been recommended as the initial treatment approach for adult obstructive sleep apnea.”35
Sleep Apnea and COVID-19
Research is showing a link between sleep apnea and severe COVID-19 symptoms and long-term health issues36. Adults with sleep apnea might face up to a 75% higher risk of long COVID. This can cause ongoing symptoms for weeks, months, or even years after getting infected36.
The study on sleep apnea and COVID-19 is ongoing37. While sleep apnea doesn’t increase the chance of getting COVID-19, those with it might have worse symptoms and need hospital care37. This could be because sleep apnea often comes with health issues like diabetes, obesity, heart failure, and heart diseases. These conditions make people more likely to have severe COVID-1937.
Studies show that many people who get COVID-19 can have long-term symptoms38. In fact, about 21% of those with COVID-19 in the study had symptoms that lasted38. People with sleep apnea were almost 75% more likely to have these long COVID symptoms38. Women with sleep apnea were 30% more likely to have these symptoms than men38.
Doctors might check how a person sleeps and breathe after they get over COVID-19, especially if they had sleep apnea before37. This helps doctors know how to help them recover and might suggest special treatments for sleep issues37.
In conclusion, research is still looking into how sleep apnea and COVID-19 are connected363738. It seems that not treating sleep apnea might make people more likely to have severe COVID-19 symptoms and long-term health problems363738. Doctors might look at sleep patterns to help people recover from COVID-19, especially if they had sleep apnea before, to make sure they get the right care37.
| Statistic | Details | Source |
|---|---|---|
| 75% higher risk of long COVID | Adults with obstructive sleep apnea may have up to a 75% higher risk of developing long COVID. | 36 |
| 5% had obstructive sleep apnea | About 5% of adults had obstructive sleep apnea in the study. | 36 |
| 5-17% developed long COVID | About 5% of adults in the N3C network, 17% in PCORnet, and less than 5% of children in PEDSnet were suspected to have developed long COVID. | 36 |
| 75% increased likelihood of long COVID | After controlling for various factors, adults with obstructive sleep apnea were 75% more likely to experience long COVID within the N3C network. | 36 |
| 89% increased likelihood for women, 59% for men | Women in the study had an 89% increased likelihood of having long COVID if they had obstructive sleep apnea, compared to 59% for men. | 36 |
| Long COVID definition | Long COVID, defined as symptoms persisting for at least four weeks by the CDC and for at least three months by the WHO, is experienced by individuals for weeks, months, or years after COVID-19 infection. | 36 |
| Study funding | The study was funded by RECOVER (OT2HL161847) and additional support from the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (UL1TR002494). | 36 |
| Sleep apnea and COVID-19 risk | Evidence suggests that sleep apnea does not increase the risk of contracting COVID-19, but individuals with untreated obstructive sleep apnea may be at a higher risk of severe COVID symptoms. | 37 |
| 6% develop long COVID | It is estimated that more than 6% of individuals who contract COVID-19 develop long COVID, which may lead to persistent symptoms such as impaired breathing, sleeping problems, and fatigue. | 37 |
| 9% had obstructive sleep apnea | 9% of adults in the study (86,716 people) had preexisting obstructive sleep apnea. | 38 |
| 21% had long COVID | About 21% of people with a documented COVID-19 case (142,185 people) in the study were identified as having symptoms of Long COVID. | 38 |
| 75% higher risk of long COVID | The risk for Long COVID was nearly 75% higher for people with obstructive sleep apnea than for people without the condition in the largest group studied. | 38 |
| 30% higher risk for women | Women with obstructive sleep apnea were 30% more likely to experience symptoms of Long COVID than men with the same condition. | 38 |
Conclusion
Sleep apnea is a serious issue that can lead to big health problems if not treated39. Luckily, there are many ways to fix it, from simple steps to more complex treatments39. Working with a doctor helps people with sleep apnea find the best way to handle their symptoms and better their health and life quality.
About 1 in 5 adults have mild sleep apnea symptoms, and 1 in 15 have it badly40. But, there are good ways to deal with it41. CPAP therapy is often the top choice for not needing surgery39. Yet, sticking with it can be hard, with only half of those given CPAP using it as told41.
Getting help from a doctor is key to handling sleep apnea39. After getting the right diagnosis, there are many treatment options to try39. Taking action can make breathing better, reduce tiredness during the day, and lower risks of other health issues like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke40. With the right steps, sleep apnea can be managed well, leading to better sleep and health overall.
FAQ
What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder. It happens when breathing stops and starts over and over. There are two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA).
OSA is more common. It occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airflow. CSA happens when the brain doesn’t send the right signals to the breathing muscles.
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?
Symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea include loud snoring and stopping breathing during sleep. You might also gasp or choke during sleep. You might wake up with a dry mouth and have morning headaches.
Other symptoms are trouble sleeping, feeling very tired during the day, trouble concentrating, and feeling irritable. Central sleep apnea symptoms are similar but include more daytime fatigue and trouble falling or staying asleep.
What causes sleep apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea happens when throat muscles relax during sleep. This blocks the airway. Central sleep apnea is caused by the brain not sending the right signals to the breathing muscles.
What are the risk factors for sleep apnea?
Being overweight, older, or male increases your risk. So does a narrow airway and a family history of sleep apnea. Other risks include smoking, nasal congestion, and certain medical conditions.
Conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, and type 2 diabetes also increase the risk.
What are the complications of untreated sleep apnea?
Without treatment, sleep apnea can cause serious issues. These include feeling very tired and sleepy during the day. It can also lead to high blood pressure, heart problems, and type 2 diabetes.
Untreated sleep apnea can also cause liver problems and affect how well medications work. It can also disrupt the sleep of people who share a bed with you.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Doctors diagnose sleep apnea with a physical exam and a medical history. They may also order sleep studies to monitor your breathing and oxygen levels during sleep.
What are the treatment options for sleep apnea?
Non-medical treatments include losing weight and sleeping in a different position. Nasal sprays or devices can also help keep airways open. Treating underlying conditions can also help.
Positive airway pressure (PAP) devices are a common treatment. These include CPAP machines. Oral appliances like mouthpieces can also help. In some cases, surgical treatments are recommended.
How do medications and lifestyle changes affect sleep apnea?
There are no specific medications for central sleep apnea. But some drugs may be used to help manage it. Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed can help.
Good sleep hygiene can also make a difference. In some cases, these changes can reduce or even eliminate sleep apnea symptoms.
How does sleep apnea relate to COVID-19?
Research shows that people with sleep apnea may be at higher risk of severe COVID-19 symptoms and hospitalization. The link between sleep apnea and COVID-19 is still being studied.
Source Links
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- 4 Signs You Might Have Sleep Apnea – https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/4-signs-you-might-have-sleep-apnea
- Causes of Sleep Apnea – https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/sleep-apnea/obstructive-sleep-apnea-causes
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