What is Sleep Apnea? Understanding the Signs, Symptoms, and Causes

People with sleep apnea may be more likely to have memory or thinking problems, according to a preliminary study that will be presented at the American Academy of Neurology's 76th Annual Meeting in April this year.The presentation will be made on April 13-18, 2024, in person in Denver and online. The study found a favorable relationship but did not determine whether sleep apnea causes cognitive deterioration. Lets Have a look at what are the cause and symtoms fo Sleep Apnea.

The two main types of sleep apnea are Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) and Central Sleep Apnea (CSA). OSA occurs due to a narrowing of the airway during sleep, while CSA is caused by a lack of communication between the brain and breathing muscles.

symptoms

Common symptoms of sleep apnea include loud snoring, daytime fatigue, waking up gasping for air, morning headaches, dry mouth, memory issues, mood changes, and frequent awakenings during the night.

Reason

Sleep apnea can be caused by various factors such as excess weight, smoking, nasal congestion, heart disorders, anatomical issues like enlarged tonsils or a pulled back jaw, and certain medications. Central sleep apnea can also be triggered by conditions like congestive heart failure or the use of narcotic pain medicines

If you Ignore then....

If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health complications including high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, liver problems, mood disturbances, impaired memory and concentration, and an increased risk of accidents due to daytime fatigue.

It is essential to consult a healthcare provider if you suspect you have sleep apnea to undergo testing and receive appropriate treatment to manage the condition effectively.