What is sleep apnea?
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder, the most common form being obstructive apnea. This happens because during sleep the muscles that control the airway relax and the airway becomes totally obstructed or blocked. As a result of not being able to breathe the body wakes up and gasps for breath (often causing snoring). This cycle can happen as much as hundreds of times in an evening of sleep. This can have an effect on a person's quality of sleep and affect the heart as well. Normally the relaxation of the airway would not cause an obstruction, commonly there are other factors the can have an effect in narrowing or obstructing the airway factors such as excess weight and large neck girth.
How is it diagnosed?
Apnea is often diagnosed with medical tests that are conducted through a sleep laboratory. These are tests that are conducted as you sleep; electrodes are attached to your chest airflow indicators are used as well. These tests help to show conclusively if you have this condition.
Common ways that may cure or reduce this condition
A. Your sleeping position can help-sleeping on the side rather than on your back.
B. Also look at losing weight if applicable and reducing any nasal congestion you may have-so that you breathe through your nose when sleeping.
C. For milder cases of sleep apnea mouthpieces are a useful aid. They fit over the teeth and push the lower jaw forward to open the airway. Mouthpieces come in many varieties from over the counter kind to customer fitted by a dentist or orthodontist.
D. Look at reducing nasal congestion for this may be a secondary issue. Having nasal congestion causes mouth breathing which may affect restriction of airflow when sleeping. By breathing through the nose you will have fewer restrictions. Try nasal sprays and nasal strips to improve this condition.
Other issues that can happen when sleep apnea is untreated.
Other heath issues can develop if apnea is not treated, heart issues because the stress on the heart with constantly waking up and the lack of oxygen. This lack of sleep can also affect job performance and also be a safety hazard when driving/operating machinery. This will affect the quality of life and possibly your relationships.
Conclusion
Sleep apnea is something you can't afford to ignore; it is a potentially serious condition. That can affect your heart, even your quality of life. It is important to take action in finding a cure that works for you. For mild cases common cures may help you to reduce sleep apnea.
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