Obstructive sleep apnea (sleep apnea)
About Obstructive sleep apnea (sleep apnea)
A serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and restarts during sleep causing repeated low oxygen episodes during the night. The low oxygen causes an adrenaline reaction. The combination of low oxygen and adrenaline leads to hypertension, heart failure, and a risk for abnormal heart rhythm which can be fatal. The stops in breathing are caused by closing of the throat. Risks are obesity, large neck diameter, and snoring. More than 12 million people in the United States have obstructive sleep apnea.Symptoms
Excessive daytime sleepiness, loud snoring, periods of not breathing (apnea), repeated awakenings, making a noise of choking or snorting during the night, awakening not rested in the morning, morning headaches, memory loss.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Neck size may be measured. Obesity will be identified as a contributor. Blood pressure should be checked. A sleep study, also called a polysomnogram, is usually performed. Additional tests may be done to rule out other causes of the symptoms.Conventional treatment summary
The goal of therapy is to keep the airway open during the night. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the main treatment. This is a mask worn over the nose or nose and mouth at night that blows a constant stream of air for you to breathe against. Losing weight can help. Surgery to remove excess tissue at the back of the throat may be an option for some people with sleep apnea.Medical specialties
Internal Medicine · Pediatrics · Pulmonology · Family Practice · Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) · Pediatric ENT (Otolaryngology)
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Obstructive sleep apnea (sleep apnea).