2.
There are two types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.
Obstructive sleep apnea is the more common type and is caused by a blockage of the airway.
Central sleep apnea is caused by a problem with the brain signals that control breathing.
Sleep apnea symptoms include snoring, gasping for air during sleep, and waking up feeling tired.
A sleep study can help diagnose sleep apnea.
Treatment for sleep apnea includes continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), positive airway pressure (PAP), and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) with bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP).
CPAP is the most common treatment for sleep apnea. It involves wearing a mask over your nose and mouth while you sleep. The mask is connected to a machine that delivers air pressure to keep your airway open.
PAP is similar to CPAP but uses a lower air pressure.
BiPAP is used for people who cannot tolerate CPAP. It delivers two different air pressures, one for inhaling and one for exhaling.
If you have sleep apnea, you may also be treated for high blood pressure.
4.
If you are one of the millions of Americans who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), you may be all too familiar with the symptoms: loud snoring, gasping or choking during sleep, and daytime fatigue. OSA occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax and collapse during sleep, blocking the airway and making it difficult to breathe. This can happen many times throughout the night, preventing the sufferer from getting a good night’s sleep.
There are a number of treatment options available for OSA, but one of the most effective is Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP). CPAP is a machine that delivers a gentle stream of air through a mask worn during sleep. The air pressure keeps the airway from collapsing, allowing the sufferer to breathe normally and sleep through the night.
If you think you may be suffering from OSA, talk to your doctor about being tested for the condition. Once diagnosed, there is no need to suffer from the symptoms of OSA any longer. With treatment, you can finally get the restful sleep you need to feel your best during the day.