Obstructive Sleep Apnea

OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA snoring

Last Updated December 20th, 2021

Overview

We often underestimate the importance of restful sleep for maintaining good health and mental alertness. Insufficient, disturbed or fitful sleep is common but if this becomes a regular pattern it can adversely affect one’s well-being.

People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are unable to breathe normally while sleeping because of moderate or extensive blockage in the airway. This is common among children and frequently affects adults as well. While OSA certainly lowers sleep quality of the patient themselves, it is also disturbing to those around them. The patient may remain unaware of this problem although they may wake unrefreshed, find an unexplained soreness in the throat and feel irritable and drowsy through the day.

 

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA diagramObstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder characterized by noisy, fitful breathing or snoring because of obstruction of the airway while sleeping. Apnea refers to the cessation of breathing for more than ten seconds at a time. Hypopnea occurs when the flow of air is reduced by as much as half. OSA is characterized by frequent apnea and hypopnea events during sleep.

As a result of such suboptimal breathing, the body does not get all the oxygen it requires. In order to bring breathing back to normal, the body attempts to return to a state of wakefulness. This causes frequent interruption of sleep with the result that the person does not feel well rested upon waking.

Hence, he or she is more likely to feel tired and fall asleep at odd times during the day. Over a prolonged period of time, the combination of incomplete sleep and oxygen deprivation can manifest elevated blood pressure, irritability, mood disorders and even strokes. OSA may be caused by a treatable condition. For instance, infection of the adenoid and tonsils causes these organs to swell abnormally and block the flow of air into the windpipe. This is common in young children and can be easily remedied. With the resolution of the underlying problem, the OSA also disappears.

 

What Causes It?

It is normal for the muscles of the throat to relax to a certain extent during sleep. Usually this does not cause any significant disturbance in breathing. However, in patients with OSA, the throat relaxes to such a degree that the passage of air becomes difficult and the lungs must work harder to inhale and expel air. This is responsible for the loud, noisy and jerky breathing typical of OSA. When the passage of air is blocked, breathing may cease for a short period of time. There may be a number of causes and risk factors for this:

  • Being overweight or obese.
  • Men are more likely to suffer from OSA than women.
  • Having a family history of the condition increases the risk of developing OSA.
  • Having a broader neck often correlates with having a narrower airway. Hence, obstruction in breathing is more likely during sleep.
  • Tumour blocking the windpipe.
  • Having enlarged tonsils or adenoid. This is more common among children.
  • Having a significant overbite, a dental condition in which the upper teeth overlap the lower teeth.
  • Having a deviated nasal septum.
  • Certain congenital anatomical defects. For instance, individuals having Down’s syndrome are highly likely to suffer from OSA because of their larger than normal tongues, narrower airways and certain other structural anomalies.
  • The likelihood of developing OSA increases with age.
  • Taking drugs or medications that relax the muscles of the throat.
  • Smoking.
  • Women are at an increased risk of developing OSA during pregnancy and menopause.

 

What Are The Signs of Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

Patients suffering from OSA may experience the following symptoms:

  • Snoring while sleeping.
  • Fitful, restless sleep.
  • Jerking awake with a feeling of choking.
  • Waking unrefreshed.
  • Soreness in the throat.
  • Dryness in the mouth.
  • Headaches through the day.
  • Drowsiness and nodding off at any time of the day.
  • Excessive sweating at night.
  • Bedwetting among young children.
  • Fatigue.
  • Sluggishness.
  • Lowered libido.
  • Irritability.
  • Anxiety.
  • Depression.
  • Inability to concentrate.
  • Problems with memory.
  • Acid reflux.
  • Increased blood pressure.

 

Can There Be Any Complications?

OBSTRUCTIVE SLEEP APNEA snoringFeeling drowsy or having the tendency to fall asleep at odd times of the day can result in disastrous consequences, particularly in situations or occupations that require alertness and quick reflexes. Those with chronic OSA are normally discouraged from driving for this very reason.

Over the long term, patients become irritable from lack of sleep. This can lead to mood disorders and depression. There may be a marked decline in concentration and mental agility. Persistent OSA can also give rise to cardiovascular complications. The risk of hypertension, abnormal cardiac rhythm (arrhythmia), coronary artery disease and heart failure is increased. Patients may also suffer strokes which can have debilitating long-term effects if they are not fatal.

 

Diagnosing Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Those suffering from OSA usually snore loudly. The pauses in their breathing may also have been noted by spouses or family members. These are typical indications of OSA. The physician will examine the patient’s medical history and make a physical examination. Relevant findings include obesity, having a habit of smoking or having a family history of OSA to give a few examples.

The patient may also show signs of cardiovascular complications. The mouth and throat will be examined for signs of enlargement of the uvula or tonsils or any other physical obstruction. Once OSA is diagnosed, a polysomnogram test may be required in order to gain further clarity on the extent of obstruction and the volumes of air flow. This helps assess how the condition should be treated.

 

Treatment and prevention

Treatment 

  • Using mandibular – This helps by moving the jaw forward and increasing the size of the upper airway and reducing air restriction that leads to sleep apnea.
  • Removal of tonsils and adenoids – Removal is done so as to make sure that the tonsils and adenoids do not obstruct the airway.
  • Shorten the long palate – This is done by undergoing a procedure called uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (uvulectomy) where the excess tissue in the soft palate is removed. This widens the airway making it easier for air to move down the throat easily.

Prevention 

  • Follow the Buteyko breathing method – This technique is named after a Russian physician who developed this technique. This breathing method entails breathing in through the nose and not the mouth.
  • Follow a healthy diet – Processed and junk foods tend to acidify the blood in order to maintain the normal pH levels. This can cause heavy breathing or chronic breathing. Leading to sleep apnea.
  • Breastfeeding and breathing – The condition of sleep apnea is linked to the suboptimal growth of the mouth, teeth, and face. Breastfeeding can help in preventing conditions like obstructive sleep apnea.

 

Dos and Don'ts

Dos
  • Try sleeping sideways rather than on your back as it reduces the pressure on the airway passage.
  • Practice pranayama, it is an ancient yoga technique that helps to breathe.
  • Go for brisk walks as it helps in increasing circulation and improves breathing.
Don'ts
  • Consume alcohol or any sedative as it has a subdued effect on breathing and can make the condition of obstructive sleep apnea worse.
  • Indulge in smoking this effects your lungs and can make it difficult to breathe.
  • Expose yourself to irritants like dust or perfumes.

 

 

 

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The Cabbage Soup Diet: The healthiest way to instant weight loss Cabbage soup diet rapid weight loss diet for those who want to shed those extra pounds in less…
Barium-enema
Barium Enema Barium enema is also known as colon x-ray. Here, the patient is asked to consume small amount of…
GGt test
GGT – Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase Test GGT or gammaglutamyl transferase test is a liver function test that is used to detect the extent of…
CEA_test
Carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) test CEA or carcinoembryonic test detects the presence of CEA antigen in your blood mainly & determines the effectiveness…
Hymenoplasty
Hymenoplasty Read on to find out all about hymenoplasty, the procedure, post-surgery care, the risks, and the benefits.
oral hygiene tips
6 shocking consequences of bad oral hygiene (and how to avoid them) Did you know bad breath is not just turning off, but also harms your body in ways you…
avocado benefits
Avocado: 15 reasons why this fruit should be a staple in your diet Did you know that the word avocado literally means "testicles". Don't get grossed out as this power-packed fruit…
ashwagandha brain
Ashwagandha: The best-kept secret of Ayurveda now revealed! Ashwagandha literally means "smell of horse". Don't get bogged down by that one tiny detail because this ayurveduic…
Salt dangers
Sodium chloride: The wonders and dangers of the simple table salt Sodium chloride is a salt containing sodium and chlorine ions at a 1:1 ratio. It is edible and…
Kava: Is it the healthy substitute for alcohol you have been waiting for? Native to the beautiful South Pacific islands, Kava is a famous beverage rooted in the local culture. It…
fructosamine test
Fructosamine Test A fructosamine test measures blood sugar glucose content. Fructosamine level can indicate blood sugar level in past 2-3…
anoscopy
Anoscopy Anoscopy is an invasive diagnostic procedure where a small device known as anoscope will be inserted in the…
Diabetes blood test
Diabetic Profile The diabetic profile is a set of tests used for testing and monitoring the various kinds of Diabetes…
Okra: How can this nutrient-dense vegetable help you fight diabetes? Okra is a food which is rich in nutrients and minerals which are extremely essential for a healthy…
Hepatitis A virus infected liver
Hepatitis A Virus (HAV) Total Blood test to look for IgM antibodies to know if you are infected with Hepatitis A virus (HAV),…
stress depressed anxiety
Are you depressed or just stressed? Know when to see a doctor Why are some people more anxious than others? Is being depressed the same as feeling sad? Have you…
sugar toxic health
Sugar: 7 new shocking truths revealed about the sweet poison Can drinking soda bring you closer to death? Is sugar slowly poisoning you and your family? You would…
aspartame or sugar
Aspartame – Hidden truths about this storm in a teacup Aspartame, the artificial sweetener, has gone under the scanner on several occasions for allegedly doing more harm than…
High Fiber Diet – Fire up your fiber intake for these health benefits! Regular bowels, healthy detox, higher immunity, and guaranteed weight loss - a high fiber diet can bring all…
xylitol gum
Xylitol : Is this the right sugar substitute for you? Discovered during World War 2 owing to sugar shortage, xylitol has become a common name in pharamaceutical industry.…
black seed oil benefits
Black Seed Oil: What secret benefits could it bestow on your health? Black seeds or nigella seeds are tiny packets of health brimming with amazing benefits. Find out why should…
gout diet purines
Gout Diet : Get relief from painful joints by eating these foods Are you a victim of this painful condition? Are medications providing only short relief? Find a list of…
DHEA wrinkles
DHEA: Now get unbelievable age defiance with this wonder hormone! DHEA is known popularly as the age-defying hormone. This supplement is widely used to slow down aging and…
Oil of Oregano: The one-stop essential oil you’ve been looking for Are you plagued by a weak immune system? High body inflammation accompanied by pain and infections? Why not…
Cayenne: The remarkable benefits of these red hot chili peppers These may make you rush for a glass of water, but cayenne pepper is actually a healthy additive…
Love tea, hate tannins? Rooibos tea is just what you need The market is brimming with a multitude of herbal teas. But what makes rooibos tea (or red bush)…
Pescatarian Diet 101: What are the inherent health advantages of this diet? People opt to become a pescatarian in order to enrich their bodies with the essential health benefits that…
shakeology woman
Meal replacement or protein drink? Learn all about Shakeology and its claims Shakeology from Beachbody claims to be the most suitable shake that can aid in weight loss, regulate blood…
ANTIPHOSPHOLIPIDANTIBODY(APL)_IgG
Antiphospholipid (APL) antibody-IgG The Antiphospholipid Antibody testing is a blood test used to determine an autoimmune disorder called Antiphospholipid syndrome linked…
vdrl test syphilis
VDRL Test The VDRL test is a blood test that is used to diagnose sexually transmitted or venereal diseases, primarily…
cystatin C
Cystatin C Test Cystatin C is a specific single-chain protein that is found in body fluids and is a biomarker for…
liver detox facts
7 liver detox facts and why ignoring these could kill you! Are you taking care of this organ that handles over 500 different vital functions in your body? Your…
L-theanine attention
L-Theanine: Better sleep, higher focus, and many other benefits Did you know that L-theanine found in green tea can make you sleep better and be focused at…
gallbladder diet tomato
Gallbladder surgery :Tips on post-operative care and diet What to eat post a gallbladder surgery? What are the key things to avoid if you had a…
Are you sure you are drinking enough water? Everyone says, drink 8 glasses of water per day. But how much truth is there in this rule…
Green, brown, & bitter: The instant advantages of including fenugreek in your diet Did you know the earliest usage of fenugreek can be traced back to the Egyptian civilization? Find out…
How can Kegels help you overcome weak pelvic muscles & incontinence? Kegel exercises are pelvic floor strengthening exercises that can help you overcome incontinence issues that rise out of…

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