Being able to breathe and sleep well through the night has an impact on the way we experience life and perform our work. As a Snoring and Sleep Surgery specialist, Dr Sanu P Moideen treats sleep-disordered breathing, nasal and airway obstruction, snoring and sleep apnea, and more.
Obstructive Sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a condition that causes breathing to repeatedly stop and start during sleep. OSA can lead to significant health problems if left untreated. In this article, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for OSA .
Causes of Sleep Apnea
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of OSA . The most common cause is obesity. When a person is overweight, the excess fat around their neck can put pressure on their airway, making it harder to breathe. Other factors that can contribute to sleep apnea include:
- Genetics: OSA can run in families, indicating a genetic component to the disorder.
- Gender: Men are more likely than women to develop OSA .
- Age: OSA becomes more common as people get older.
- Medical conditions: People with medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease are more likely to develop OSA .
Symptoms
The most common symptom of OSA is loud snoring. Other symptoms include: Waking up with a dry mouth or sore throat, Waking up with a headache, Feeling tired or sleepy during the day, Difficulty concentrating, Irritability or mood changes, Restless sleep, Gasping or choking during sleep.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
There are several treatment options available for OSA. The most common treatment is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. CPAP therapy involves wearing a mask over the nose or mouth while sleeping. The mask is connected to a machine that delivers a constant flow of air to keep the airway open.
As a sleep surgeon, Dr Sanu P Moideen provides following treatment options
- Nasal surgeries
- Uvulo Palato Pharyngoplasty
- Zeta plasty
- Base tongue reduction
- Turbinate channeling
- Epiglottoplasty
- Sleep study services
- CPAP titration assistance
Other treatment options include:
- Oral appliances: These are custom-made mouth guards that help keep the airway open.
- Surgery: Surgery may be recommended in severe cases of sleep apnea to remove excess tissue from the throat or nose.
- Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bed can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
OSA is a serious sleep disorder that can lead to significant health problems if left untreated. It is important to seek medical attention if you or a loved one experiences any symptoms of OSA . With proper treatment, most people with sleep apnea are able to get a good night’s sleep and improve their overall health and well-being.