- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): Airway blockage during sleep
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Brain fails to send breathing signals
- Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome (CompSAS): Combination of OSA and CSA
DR MANOJ K GOEL
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These interruptions in breathing can occur multiple times throughout the night, often leading to disrupted sleep and reduced oxygen levels in the blood. The two primary types of sleep apnea are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), caused by the relaxation of throat muscles blocking the airway, and central sleep apnea (CSA), where the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Symptoms include loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and morning headaches. Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to serious health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
Managing sleep apnea typically involves a multidisciplinary approach led by respiratory and sleep medicine experts. Diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation of symptoms, medical history, and often a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor breathing patterns during sleep. Treatment options vary based on the type and severity of sleep apnea but may include lifestyle changes such as weight loss and positional therapy to avoid sleeping on the back. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a common treatment where a machine delivers a steady flow of air through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep. For those who cannot tolerate CPAP, oral appliances that reposition the jaw or surgical interventions to correct anatomical issues may be recommended.
In addition to CPAP therapy and oral appliances, other treatment modalities for sleep apnea include bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP) machines that adjust air pressure during inhalation and exhalation, and adaptive servo-ventilation (ASV) devices for central sleep apnea. Lifestyle modifications such as avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed, quitting smoking, and maintaining a regular sleep schedule can also help manage symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove excess tissue blocking the airway or to correct structural abnormalities in the throat or nasal passages. Regular follow-up with sleep specialists is crucial to monitor treatment effectiveness, adjust therapy as needed, and improve overall sleep quality and health.
Understanding Variants of Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Key Indicators of Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Approaches to Managing Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure for Effective Breathing Support
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