Health About How To Ease Sleep Apnea Symptoms

Sleep apnea is caused by partial or complete blockage of the airway during sleep. There are two main types - obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea. <br><br>Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type and is caused when the muscles supporting the soft palate and throat relax too much during sleep. This blocks the airway and reduces or stops airflow despite breathing efforts. Fat deposits around the upper airway and structural problems like a large neck circumference or enlarged tonsils can also cause OSA. <br>Central sleep apnea is less common and occurs when the brain fails to signal the breathing muscles to contract regularly. <br>Sleep apnea is a serious condition because the frequent interruptions to breathing and reductions in blood oxygen levels disturb deep sleep cycles. Over many years, this lack of quality rest makes it a major risk factor for serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and depression. <br>People with untreated severe apnea are up to twice as likely to die prematurely from related issues. It also increases the risk of traffic and workplace accidents due to excessive daytime sleepiness. Loud snoring and choking noises during episodes can disturb partners' sleep as well. <br>In summary, sleep apnea causes fragmented sleep and low oxygen levels which tax the cardiovascular system over time. It represents a very real and potentially life-threatening condition if not properly diagnosed and treated.