Understanding Sleep Apnea: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments in New Westminster

by | Feb 27, 2023 | CPAP Machines for Sleep Apnea

Sleep Apnea New Westminster

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that affects many people in New Westminster. If you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea, it’s important to understand the symptoms, causes, and available treatments. In this post, we’ll explore the basics of sleep apnea and provide information on how to manage this condition.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a disorder in which a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. These interruptions can occur up to hundreds of times per night, and they can last for several seconds or longer. This can lead to a lack of oxygen in the body, which can cause a range of health problems.

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

The most common symptom of sleep apnea is snoring, but other symptoms can include:

  • Gasping or choking during sleep
  • Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Mood changes or irritability
  • Morning headaches
  • Causes of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Obesity
  • Large tonsils or tongue
  • Narrow airway
  • Family history
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol or sedative use
  • Treatments for Sleep Apnea

There are several treatments available for sleep apnea, including:

Lifestyle changes: Losing weight, quitting smoking, and avoiding alcohol and sedatives can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy: This involves wearing a mask over your nose and/or mouth that delivers pressurized air to keep your airway open during sleep.
Oral appliances: These devices can be worn in the mouth to help keep the airway open.
Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove excess tissue in the throat or to reposition the jaw.
Conclusion

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, it’s important to speak to your doctor. By understanding the causes and available treatments for sleep apnea, you can take steps to manage this condition and improve your sleep and overall health.