What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common yet serious sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing or shallow breathing. These interruptions can happen multiple times throughout the night, disrupting the sleep cycle and often leading to other health complications if left untreated.

Obstructed Airway

Normal Airway

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three main types of sleep apnea:

  • Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): This is the most common form, where the airway becomes blocked or collapses during sleep, usually due to relaxed throat muscles.
  • Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): In CSA, the brain fails to send signals to the muscles that control breathing, causing brief pauses in breathing.
  • Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome (Treatment-Emergent Central Sleep Apnea): This is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of sleep apnea can vary, but commonly include:

  • Loud snoring
  • Gasping for air during sleep
  • Morning headaches
  • Daytime sleepiness or fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Irritability or mood changes
  • Night sweats
  • Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

Untreated Sleep Apnea

Untreated sleep apnea can lead to several health issues, including:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart disease
  • Stroke
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Depression
  • Worsening of ADHD

Learn about Treatment options for OSA

CPAP Solutions Group has a wide variety of treatment options for our clients. Click the Learn More button below to get started.

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