There are different types of sleep apnea, but they all share the common characteristic of someone stopping breathing while they are asleep. The most prevalent type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea and that is the type that we will be exploring in more detail today.
When breathing is interrupted due to relaxed throat muscles cutting off the airway, that is known as OSA. These sufferers will have severe snoring problems, because air is struggling to get through a very small pathway. Ultimately the airway is closed off completely and the patient is unable to breathe.
The OSA sufferer then wakes up and starts breathing again. They will then fall back asleep and begin the whole routine over again. This happens continuously throughout the night and they are often completely unaware of its occurrence. They certainly feel the effects though, because they are afflicted with severe sleepiness during the day.
Depending on the severity of the sleep apnea there are various cures available. The first step someone can take is to attempt to maintain a healthy weight. While this has numerous health benefits associated with it, the reduction of any excess weight around the neck will reduce the pressure that is put on the airway.
Sleep apnea sufferers should try to avoid alcohol before going to bed. While a glass of wine can help some to relax and fall asleep faster, it can also contribute to the throat muscles relaxing, which leads to more apneas. You are better off opting for a glass of warm milk.
Sleeping on your side instead of your back can help to alleviate mild sleep apnea. Some people will sew a tennis ball into the back of their shirt to remind them to stay on their sides while they sleep.
Above all the most successful cure for sleep apnea is the CPAP machine which stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. This machine blows a constant stream of air through a hose connected to a face or nasal mask. The air pressure, which is custom set for each patient works to keep the airway from closing. The whole apparatus may seem cumbersome at first, but you quickly get used to it and the ability to finally get a good night’s sleep far outweighs any initial inconvenience.
Be sure to talk to your doctor if you suspect you have sleep apnea. It is not to be taken lightly as sleep apnea sufferers are at increased risk for heart attack and stroke. The condition can be successfully treated and the improved quality of life from getting sufficient, uninterrupted sleep is entirely worthwhile.