Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type of sleep apnea. Medical professionals are still at a loss as to the exact cause. For most people with obstructive sleep apnea, the soft palate is the most affected region. It happens because the muscle relaxes somewhat when the air passage fully collapses and ends up obstructed.

The Period of Interrupted Sleep

When the airway collapses and breathing stops, the person will wake up because the airway is obstructed. Being awake generally only happens for a few seconds and then the person goes back to sleep. This constant disruption stops the person from reaching a deep sleep known as REM or Rapid Eye Movement. This level is needed to help our bodies rejuvenate and defend against psychological and physical health conditions.

Possible Risk Factors

Being obese or overweight can be harmful for anyone. So also is obstructive sleep apnea. One of the main causes of obstructive sleep apnea is obesity. It generally happens because of the buildup of extra fat on the sides of the airway resulting in it becoming narrower, especially when the muscles relax. Age is another risk factor of obstructive sleep apnea because aging means reduced muscle mass.

Indications, Signs and Complications

Sleep disturbance is the major sign of obstructive sleep apnea. Because of the constant waking and not being able to reach a deep sleep, you may suffer daytime drowsiness, irritability, anxiety, personality changes, memory problems, depression and other symptoms. It could even add to drowsy drive syndrome which increases the risk of having a car accident. Congestive heart failure and stroke risks are higher due to the lack of oxygen.

Medical Treatments

There are many things that can be done to treat obstructive sleep apnea. Weight loss is your first option. This can then be followed up by positive pressure therapy, positional therapy, surgery or oral appliances. Positive airway pressure has three parts, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), bi-level positive airway pressure (BPAP) and autotitration. Positional therapy works with the idea that a certain sleeping position may help the patient with snoring or shortness of breath.