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Sleep apnea is a condition noticed by a repeated reduction in, or a complete stop of breathing while sleeping. There are two known types of sleep apnea; the common obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and the less common central sleep apnea (CSA). This stopping of breathing can take 10 seconds or even more resulting in 25% less airflow than normal.

About 25% of people have central sleep apnea; the brain doesn’t send a signal to the respiratory muscles to bring air into the lungs. Up to 4% of people have obstructive sleep apnea; the brain does send a signal, but the air flow into the lungs is blocked, causing less breath going into the lungs. More men than women have this problem and it will be more common with older people.

Sleep apnea can cause insomnia, memory problems, headaches, tiredness during the day, concentration problems, anxiety, bad temper, and problems during work due to bad concentration. Sleep apnea can also lead to a higher chance of having a car accident or an accident at the workplace. In fact, apnea sufferers have a three times higher chance of having an accident, caused by sleepiness.

If sleep apnea is left untreated, it can lead to other health problems, such as heart failure, high blood pressure, diabetes, liver damage, kidney failure, heart disease, strokes, and even death. Central sleep apnea might be caused by medication, strokes, heart failure, or even high altitude. Obstructive sleep apnea can be caused by narrow airway passages, nasal congestion, vocal cord injury, enlarged tonsils, upper respiratory infections, obesity and weight gain, medication, use of alcohol, and smoking.

Most of the time, doctors will prescribe a treatment with CPAP: continuous positive airway pressure. It is a breathing machine that pushes air into the airways with adjustable intensities and pressures. Research has proven that half of the CPAP users will stop within 3 months, and are looking for an alternative treatment. Most apnea sufferers get problems from using their breathing mask, such as dry mouth; nasal congestion; sinus problems; ear pressure; headaches; and even claustrophobia.

A simple step to improve your sleep is trying to sleep on your side, instead of on your back. Also, try not to eat too late, especially before you go to bed. Do not drink too much alcohol, because alcohol will relax the muscles in your throat more than usual. For the same reason don’t use drugs before bedtime. Try not to smoke because smoking reduces oxygen levels in your blood and strains your heart, and will contribute to sleep apnea.

If you are overweight, you should lose weight as it has shown to be important in the treatment of apnea. In fact, your weight can be the cause of your sleep apnea. Losing weight and stop smoking are the 2 most important things you can do to stop sleep apnea. Exercises will improve your health but should be avoided late in the evening. Raising your bed a little bit incline can help you to keep your airways open. Research has proven that people with sleep apnea have worse symptoms when they sleep flat on their back. Do you have the symptoms of sleep apnea in men?

As you stop breathing during your sleep, sleep apnea can eventually kill you. But there is an alternative to the CPAP treatment. Like most health conditions, getting rid of your sleep apnea takes time and, most importantly, you need to have commitment to the treatment. Most people who used this treatment got rid of their sleep apnea within 6 months, sometimes even within 3 months.

Sleep Apnea is not a normal health issue, or sleeping problem. Individuals suffering from it should seek medical attention soonest possible. Do take note that sufferers may not be aware of the condition, so if you see the symptons on your friends, spouse or family members, remember to take action asap. Snoring and Weight gain are common Side Effects of Apnea. Last but not least, wishing everyone have a good night sleep always!