Understanding Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that causes disruptions in breathing throughout the night due to a blockage in airflow or miscommunication between the brain and lungs. Every time breathing stops, sleep apnea sufferers wake slightly, preventing them from getting a good night’s sleep. They often report feeling tired and irritable during the day and may experience other health problems as well.
Sleep apnea is highly manageable with the right treatment. If you suspect you may suffer from this sleep disorder, Dr. Solly is here to help! He’s your partner, working with you and your doctor to ensure that you receive the right diagnosis and right treatment for your condition. Contact his practice in Powell, near Knoxville, TN, to schedule a sleep apnea appointment.
The Three Types of Sleep Apnea
There are three types of sleep apnea, characterized by what causes breathing to stop while sleeping.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): OSA is the most common form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the airway is obstructed for a number of reasons such as enlarged soft tissue, relaxed muscles, or a relaxed tongue that falls back into the throat. Typical symptoms include deep snoring, choking or gasping for air, and wheezing.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): CSA occurs when the brain doesn’t send the right signals to the muscles that control breathing. It can be difficult to treat and causes sufferers to breathe shallowly or stop breathing while asleep.
Complex/Mixed Sleep Apnea: This type of sleep apnea is a mixture of OSA and CSA.
The Dangers of
Untreated Sleep Apnea
If left untreated, sleep apnea can increase your risk of developing many health problems, including:
- High blood pressure
- Heart disease, heart failure, heart attacks, and palpitations
- Stroke
- Diabetes
- Worsening ADHD
- Depression
- Weight gain
- Chronic headaches
Neglecting treatment for your sleep apnea symptoms can affect more than just your health. It can lead to problems with your relationships, impact your ability to do simple tasks, and increase your risk of causing a car accident. Don’t let sleep apnea rule your life any longer. Contact Dr. Solly to get the treatment you need.
