Obstructive Sleep Apnea – Portland

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

There are two different types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. Both of them consist of repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is a more common form of the disorder. It occurs when the tissues in the upper airway “obstruct” the free flow of air. Someone who has OSA may stop breathing dozens or even hundreds of times each night!

Causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

There are multiple different factors that can contribute to OSA. Here are some of the most common ones:

• Obesity: Having excess body fat, especially around the neck, can lead to obstructions of the upper airway.
• Anatomical Abnormalities: Having enlarged tonsils or adenoids can interfere with airflow.
• Smoking: Smoking irritates the tissues in the throat, often worsening OSA symptoms.
• Nasal Congestion: If you find it difficult to breathe through your nose due to chronic allergies or other issues, this increases your risk of OSA.

Possible Complications of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

OSA can result in a number of different consequences, some being very serious. Here are some of the common ones patients experience:

• Altered Reaction Time: OSA interferes with your sleep cycle, leading to fatigue during the day. This can slow down your reaction times, increasing the risk of car accidents.
• Mood Changes: People with OSA are more likely to develop a mood disorder. It can also increase your risk of sexual dysfunction.
• Heart Heath: OSA increases your risk of heart attack, stroke, and other serious cardiovascular issues.
• Weight Gain: Weight gain can worsen OSA, and OSA can cause you to gain weight. This is because sleep deprivation increases cravings for high-calorie foods.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Have you noticed that you feel tired during the day? Did your significant other inform you that you snore loudly throughout the night? These are all signs of OSA, and it is something you should follow up on. Snoring isn’t always caused by sleep apnea, but it is a common symptom. By seeing a qualified doctor, you can undergo a sleep test and get to the bottom of your symptoms. If you are diagnosed with OSA, a custom treatment plan can be put together just for you to help you get the quality sleep that you deserve!