Dr. Monika Gorban Sleep Apnea

1. Understanding Sleep Apnea: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. If you snore loudly and feel tired even after a full night's sleep, you might have sleep apnea. This condition can lead to various health issues if left untreated, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Types of Sleep Apnea There are three main types of sleep apnea: 1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) OSA is the most common form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively during sleep, leading to a temporary blockage of the upper airway. This blockage disrupts normal breathing patterns and can cause loud snoring and gasping for air during sleep.

2. 2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) CSA occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Unlike OSA, CSA is not caused by a physical blockage but by a failure in the brain's respiratory control centers. 3. Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome Also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea, this condition occurs when someone has OSA that converts to CSA during treatment. It involves a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apneas. Recognizing the Symptoms Common symptoms of sleep apnea include: •Loud snoring •Episodes in which you stop breathing during sleep (reported by another person) •Gasping for air during sleep •Awakening with a dry mouth or sore throat •Morning headaches •Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia) •Excessive daytime sleepiness •Difficulty paying attention while awake •Irritability If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible diagnosis. Risk Factors Several factors can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea: •Being overweight •Having a large neck circumference •Having a thick neck, large tonsils, or a large tongue •Having a family history of sleep apnea •Being male •Being over the age of 40 •Alcohol use or sedative use

3. •Smoking •Nasal congestion Understanding these risk factors can help in early detection and prevention of sleep apnea. Diagnosis To diagnose sleep apnea, healthcare providers may recommend: •Polysomnography (Sleep Study): An overnight test conducted in a sleep center to monitor brain waves, oxygen levels, heart rate, and breathing patterns. •Home Sleep Apnea Test: A simplified version of a sleep study that can be conducted at home to monitor breathing patterns and oxygen levels during sleep. Based on the results, doctors can determine the severity of sleep apnea and recommend appropriate treatment options. Treatment Options Treatment for sleep apnea aims to restore regular breathing during sleep and relieve symptoms. Options include: 1. Lifestyle Changes For mild cases, lifestyle modifications can be effective: •Weight Loss: Reducing weight can decrease fatty deposits in the neck and throat area, improving airflow. •Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea. •Avoiding Alcohol and Sedatives: These substances relax the muscles of the throat, worsening sleep apnea. •Sleeping Position: Sleeping on your side rather than your back can prevent airway obstruction. •Nasal Decongestants: Using nasal sprays or allergy medications can reduce nasal congestion, improving airflow.

4. 2. Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) CPAP therapy is the most common and effective treatment for moderate to severe OSA. It involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth during sleep, which delivers a continuous stream of air to keep the airway open. 3. Mandibular Advancement Devices (MADs) MADs are dental devices that reposition the lower jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. They are suitable for mild to moderate OSA and are often used as an alternative to CPAP for patients who cannot tolerate the machine. 4. Surgery In certain cases, surgical options may be considered: •Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): This procedure removes excess tissue from the throat to widen the airway. •Genioglossus Advancement (GA): This surgery repositions the tongue muscle attachment to prevent airway collapse. •Hyoid Suspension: Involves repositioning the hyoid bone to stabilize the airway. Surgery is typically considered when other treatments have not been effective. Managing Sleep Apnea In addition to medical treatments, managing sleep apnea involves: •Regular Follow-ups: Consistent monitoring with healthcare providers to assess treatment effectiveness. •Using CPAP Consistently: Ensuring proper use of CPAP devices as prescribed. •Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Continuing weight management, regular exercise, and avoiding substances that can worsen sleep apnea.

5. Conclusion Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can significantly impact health and quality of life. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking timely medical intervention are crucial steps in managing the disorder. With appropriate treatment and lifestyle modifications, individuals with sleep apnea can lead healthy and fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, consult a healthcare provider to discuss diagnostic and treatment options tailored to individual needs. Early intervention can prevent complications and improve overall well-being.