Can sleep apnea be life-threatening?

Untreated sleep apnea significantly increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation, and sudden cardiac death. It also impairs daytime alertness, increasing the risk of accidents.

Do I have to use CPAP forever?

CPAP is the most effective treatment for moderate to severe sleep apnea and is typically a long-term therapy. However, significant weight loss or surgical interventions may reduce or eliminate the need for CPAP.

Can children have sleep apnea?

Yes, children can develop sleep apnea, often due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids. Symptoms in children may include snoring, restless sleep, bedwetting, and behavioral issues.

RespiratoryICD-10: G47.33Affects approximately 22 million Americans, with 80% of moderate to severe cases undiagnosed

Sleep Apnea

Also known as: Obstructive sleep apnea, OSA, Central sleep apnea

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea, the most common form, occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airway. Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and daytime fatigue that impairs daily functioning.

Symptoms

Loud snoring

Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep observed by another person

Gasping or choking during sleep

Excessive daytime sleepiness

Morning headaches

Difficulty concentrating during the day

Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking

Irritability and mood changes

Frequent nighttime urination

Causes

Relaxation of throat muscles blocking the airway in obstructive sleep apnea
Brain failing to send proper signals to breathing muscles in central sleep apnea
Excess weight contributing to airway narrowing
Anatomical features such as a thick neck or narrow airway

Risk Factors

Obesity or excess weight
Large neck circumference
Male sex
Age over 40
Family history of sleep apnea
Smoking and alcohol use

Diagnosis

Overnight polysomnography in a sleep lab
Home sleep apnea test for moderate to severe cases
Epworth Sleepiness Scale questionnaire
Physical examination of the airway
Measurement of apnea-hypopnea index

Treatment

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy
Oral appliances to reposition the jaw
Weight loss through diet and exercise
Positional therapy to avoid sleeping on the back
Surgical options including uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or jaw advancement
Hypoglossal nerve stimulation for CPAP-intolerant patients

Prevention

Maintaining a healthy weight
Regular physical exercise
Avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime
Sleeping on your side rather than your back
Quitting smoking

When to See a Doctor

Loud snoring that disrupts your or your partner's sleep
Observed episodes of stopped breathing during sleep
Excessive daytime drowsiness affecting work or driving
Waking up gasping or choking

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Conditions

Insomnia

Mental Health

Obesity

Metabolic

Atrial Fibrillation

Cardiovascular

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