Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Adults

What Is Obstructive Sleep Apnea In Adults?

In obstructive sleep apnea, the upper airway repeatedly collapses during sleep, causing a decreased airflow that stresses the heart, the body and raises blood pressure. This condition may worsen glucose control and insulin resistance, and lead to blood sugar imbalance. For some people, their airflow decreases during sleep which causes sleep disruptions and decreased sleep quality. Sleep-disordered breathing may cause excessive daytime sleepiness, headaches, lack of energy, and chronic aches and pains.

Symptoms

  • Loud Snoring
  • Episodes in which you stop breathing during sleep
  • Gasping for air during sleep
  • Awakening with a dry mouth
  • Morning headache
  • Difficulty staying asleep (insomnia)
  • Excessive daytime sleepiness (hypersomnia)
  • Difficulty paying attention while awake
  • Irritability

Causes

  • Excess weight
  • Neck circumference
  • A narrowed airway
  • Family history
  • Use of alcohol, sedatives or tranquilizers
  • Smoking
  • Nasal congestion
  • Medical conditions
  • Heart disorders
  • Using narcotic pain medications

Treatment

Sleep apnea can be effectively treated, and there are a number of ways to do so. The choice of treatment will depend on the reason for OSA and severity of the sleep apnea.

Dr Indu Bubna – Obstructive sleep apnea specialist will suggest some of the following

  • Weight Loss
  • Avoid Alcohol
  • Lateral sleeping
  • Surgery to remove tonsils and adenoids
  • CPAP