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Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated pauses in breathing during sleep. These pauses, called apneas, may last 10 seconds or more and occur multiple times per hour, leading to disrupted sleep, daytime fatigue, and a higher risk of cardiovascular and metabolic complications.

Types of Sleep Apnea

1. Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

• Caused by repeated collapse of the upper airway during sleep
• Often associated with obesity, large tonsils, or structural narrowing

2. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

• Caused by impaired brain signals to the breathing muscles
• Seen in heart failure, stroke, or neurological conditions

3. Mixed Sleep Apnea

• Features of both obstructive and central types

Common Symptoms

• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Excessive daytime sleepiness or fatigue
• Morning headaches
• Dry mouth or sore throat on waking
• Difficulty concentrating
• Mood changes (irritability, depression)
• Decreased libido or erectile dysfunction

Risk Factors

• Obesity
• Age > 40 years
• Family history
• Alcohol or sedative use
• Smoking
• Nasal congestion, deviated septum
• Hypothyroidism, acromegaly (in CSA)