Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These interruptions can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur several times an hour. There are three main types of sleep apnea:
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person’s breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. These interruptions can last from a few seconds to minutes and can occur several times an hour. There are three main types of sleep apnea:
Apnea Obstructiva del Sueño (AOS):
Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type, affecting more than three out of ten men and nearly one out of five women. It occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively, blocking the airway. This can cause the person to wake up repeatedly during the night, although they may not always be aware of these awakenings. Causes include being overweight, the anatomy of the neck and throat, and genetic factors.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA):
Central sleep apnea is less common and occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike obstructive apnea, there is no physical blockage of the airway. Instead, the problem lies in the communication between the brain and the respiratory muscles. Causes can include heart disease, strokes, and other medical conditions that affect the central nervous system.
Apnea Mixta o Compleja del Sueño: La apnea mixta o compleja es una combinación de apnea obstructiva y central. En estos casos, los pacientes experimentan tanto obstrucciones físicas de las vías respiratorias como problemas en la señalización del cerebro. Este tipo de apnea puede ser más difícil de tratar debido a la combinación de factores obstructivos y neurológicos.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Recognizing the symptoms of sleep apnea is crucial for seeking treatment. Here are some of the most common symptoms:
Loud Snoring
Loud snoring is one of the most common and often the most noticeable symptoms. However, not everyone who snores has sleep apnea. Snoring occurs due to the vibration of soft tissues in the throat when the airway is partially blocked.
Pauses in Breathing
A key symptom of sleep apnea is the observation of pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, known as apneas, can last from a few seconds to minutes and are often noticed by a partner or family members. These interruptions can lead to a decrease in blood oxygen levels, which can have negative effects on cardiovascular health.
Frequent Awakenings (or micro-awakenings)
Waking up frequently during the night with a sensation of choking or gasping for air is an important symptom. This can cause sleep disruptions and result in poor sleep quality. These awakenings are the body’s response to restart breathing and restore oxygen levels.
Daytime Sleepiness
Due to frequent nighttime awakenings, people with sleep apnea often experience daytime sleepiness. This can affect their performance at work or school and increase the risk of accidents. Excessive daytime sleepiness is one of the most debilitating symptoms and can significantly affect quality of life.
Morning Headaches
People with sleep apnea may wake up with headaches, which is a sign that they are not getting enough oxygen during the night. These headaches are usually tension-type and can be related to nocturnal hypoxia and sleep fragmentation.
Difficulty Concentrating
Lack of restorative sleep can lead to problems with concentration, memory, and lower performance in daily activities. Sleep deprivation affects cognitive functions and can lead to impaired decision-making and attention capacity.
Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea
The diagnosis of sleep apnea should be made by a healthcare professional. Here are the common steps in the diagnostic process:
1. Medical Evaluation:
The first step is a comprehensive medical evaluation. The doctor will review the patient’s medical history and perform a physical examination, paying special attention to the mouth, nose, and throat.
2. Sleep Questionnaires
Specific questionnaires, such as the Epworth Sleepiness Questionnaire, can be used to assess the severity of daytime sleepiness and other sleep-related symptoms.
3. Sleep studies
A sleep study, also known as polysomnography, is the most accurate diagnostic tool for sleep apnea. During a sleep study, the patient spends the night in a specialized center where various body functions are monitored while they sleep, including brain activity, eye movements, heart rate, and breathing.
4. Home Sleep Studies
For some patients, the doctor may recommend a home sleep study. This type of study is less invasive and is conducted with portable equipment that monitors breathing and oxygen levels while the patient sleeps in their own bed.
5. Analysis of Results
Once the sleep studies are completed, the doctor will analyze the results to determine if the patient has sleep apnea and, if so, its severity. Based on this diagnosis, an appropriate treatment plan can be developed.
The Solution to sleep apnea
Understanding the symptoms, diagnosis, and solutions for sleep apnea is essential for receiving proper treatment. If you suspect you might have sleep apnea, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional.
One of the most effective and least invasive solutions to treat sleep apnea, especially obstructive sleep apnea, is the use of mandibular advancement devices (MAD). Among these, the OrthoApnea NOA stands out for its innovation and effectiveness. OrthoApnea NOA offer an effective and comfortable solution to improve your quality of life and your overall health.
