Sleep Apnea

Frequently Asked Questions(FAQ)

1. What is sleep apnea?

   Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which the muscles in the throat relax to the point of collapse, restricting airflow. This causes breathing to become shallow and even stop for seconds or minutes at a time, depriving the body and brain of oxygen.

2. Why is it bad for you? / Can untreated sleep apnea lead to complications?

   The lack of deep sleep can cause significant fatigue and elevate the risk for serious health problems. Most people with sleep apnea are unaware they have it. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular problems, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of accidents.

3. What causes sleep apnea?

   There are three main types of sleep apnea.

   • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): When we sleep, the throat relaxes. For people with OSA, sometimes they relax so much that the airway becomes narrowed or blocked. As a result, air flow is reduced or completely stops flowing into the upper airway and the lungs, so the body doesn’t get the oxygen it needs to function. To summarize, it occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively.
   • Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Involves a failure of the brain to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
   • Complex/Mixed Sleep Apnea: A combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

4. What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

   Common symptoms include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and morning headaches.

5. How is sleep apnea diagnosed?

   The most common/best way for sleep apnea to be diagnosed is with a sleep test ordered by your physician. The test can be done either overnight in a sleep lab or through a home sleep test. Reference.
   
   Get your Free Sleep Test with us at Listening Lab. Enquire here.

6. What are the risk factors for sleep apnea?

   Risk factors include obesity, neck circumference, being older, family history, smoking, alcohol use, and nasal congestion.

7. Why is sleep apnea a concern?

   Untreated sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues such as hypertension, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and an increased risk of accidents due to daytime sleepiness.

8. How is sleep apnea treated?

   CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy involves using a machine that delivers a constant stream of air to keep the airways open during sleep. Other treatment includes lifestyle changes (weight loss, positional therapy), oral appliances, surgery and in some cases, medication.

9. What is CPAP therapy?

   CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) therapy involves using a machine that delivers a constant stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep.

10. Benefits of sleep apnea treatment and CPAP therapy?

    Effective sleep apnea therapy, which includes the use of CPAP equipment, has been shown to help ease common symptoms and improve energy levels, productivity and overall mind-body wellness. It’s important to remember that if left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to other serious health issues.

11. How does the CPAP Machine help you and improve your sleep?

    A CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is a common and effective treatment for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). How it works and how it helps improve sleep:

    • Maintains Open Airway:
      • The primary function of a CPAP machine is to keep the airway open during sleep. In individuals with sleep apnea, the muscles in the throat relax excessively, leading to a collapse or partial blockage of the airway. The CPAP machine delivers a continuous stream of air through a mask, which prevents the airway from collapsing.
    • Increases Air Pressure:
      • The CPAP machine provides a constant and steady flow of air at a prescribed pressure level. This pressure acts as a pneumatic splint, preventing the collapse of the throat tissues and maintaining an open airway.
    • Eliminates Snoring:
      • Snoring is a common symptom of sleep apnea. The CPAP machine helps eliminate or significantly reduce snoring by preventing the vibration of the relaxed throat tissues.
    • Improves Oxygen Levels:
      • By keeping the airway open, the CPAP machine ensures a consistent flow of oxygen into the lungs. This helps maintain adequate oxygen levels in the blood, preventing drops in oxygen saturation that can occur during apnea events.
    • Reduces Daytime Sleepiness:
      • One of the consequences of untreated sleep apnea is excessive daytime sleepiness. The CPAP machine improves sleep quality, leading to better-rested nights and reduced daytime sleepiness.
    • Enhances Sleep Quality:
      • With the continuous positive airway pressure, individuals using a CPAP machine experience improved sleep quality. By preventing interruptions in breathing, it allows for more consistent and deeper sleep cycles.
    • Reduces the Risk of Health Complications:
      • Effective treatment with a CPAP machine can reduce the risk of health complications associated with untreated sleep apnea, such as hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
    • Enhances Cognitive Function:
      • Adequate and quality sleep is essential for cognitive function. By addressing sleep apnea, the CPAP machine contributes to improved concentration, memory, and overall cognitive performance.
    • Enhances Mood:
      • Sleep apnea can contribute to mood disturbances and irritability. Treating sleep apnea with a CPAP machine can lead to improved mood and a better overall sense of well-being.

    Note: The effectiveness of CPAP depends on proper usage and adherence. Adjusting to using a CPAP machine may take some time, and it’s crucial for individuals to work closely with their healthcare provider to ensure the correct settings and mask fit for optimal results. Regular follow-ups and adjustments may be needed to address any issues and enhance the overall effectiveness of CPAP therapy.

12. Can sleep apnea be cured?

    In many cases, lifestyle changes and treatments can effectively manage sleep apnea, but it may not completely cured. Continuous management is often necessary.