Know the Basics of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a very common sleeping disorder. In fact, one out of fifteen Americans has it. However, despite being prevalent this condition often goes undiagnosed since it is usually dismissed as snoring.
Snoring and sleep apnea have many things in common but they are two very different things. Occasional snoring is nothing to be worried about. It can happen to any of us. Exhaustion, allergies, cold, and inebriation are the usual causes.
On the other hand, sleep apnea is classified as a chronic health problem and if left untreated, can worsen over time. It’s a condition wherein your breathing during sleep is disrupted. Oftentimes, breathing becomes shallow or interrupted by pauses. Aside from loud snoring, sleep apnea symptoms include choking, grasping for air, snorting, and daytime sleepiness.
Based on observation, men are generally more prone to this condition than women are. Weight is also a huge risk factor–no pun intended. Obese or overweight individuals are more likely to snore and develop sleep apnea in the long run. Moreover, having narrow airways and nasal problems can definitely cause this condition. Constricted airways caused by either health problems or anatomical defect will certainly hamper breathing during sleep. Some studies also show that sleep apnea may be caused by genetics. If people in your family habitually snore while they sleep, chances are you’ll do, too.
There are three types of sleep apnea:
The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea. Snoring and breathing interruption is caused by the relaxation of the soft tissue located at the back of the throat.
Central sleep apnea, on the other hand, is caused by the nervous system. In this case, snoring is not a symptom. Breathing disruption is caused when the brain no longer send signals to the muscles.
The third is the combination of the first two types and it is aptly called complex sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea can be prevented in a number of ways. Staying fit is one. Having a healthy diet and staying active can help you avoid it. Toning down on booze and cigarettes would help, too. And lastly, sleeping naturally–without the help of sedatives and pills–can help you, too.
If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, don’t delay getting medical help. Visit your doctor immediately, air out your concerns and discuss the Sleep Apnea Treatment Los Angeles you can take. Also, get your money’s worth by learning more about other Sleep Disorders Los Angeles from your doctor.