Loud snoring might earn some good natured ribbing from friends and family, but sleep apnea is no laughing matter. If you snore loudly, feel tired even after getting a full night of sleep, wake up abruptly with shortness of breath, wake up with a dry mouth or have a headache in the morning, you might have sleep apnea.
What is sleep apnea?
The Mayo Clinic defines sleep apnea as a "potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts." The American Diabetes Association defines the condition as "a breathing disorder where the airway is blocked when the mouth and throat relax during sleep, often for more than ten seconds."
When your airway is obstructed, you might stop breathing for a brief period of time. When your body needs oxygen, it signals you to take a deep breath. The cessation of breathing and the deep breath to get started again interfere with the body's natural rhythm, disrupting your sleep even if you never fully awaken. This can happen hundreds of times in one night, and thus lead to a feeling of fatigue and even exhaustion, even though you are certain you slept for hours.
Men are at much greater risk for sleep apnea than women. Other risk factors include being overweight or obese or having a family history of the condition. Those who smoke are three times more likely to develop sleep apnea. Age seems to be a factor as well; the incidence of sleep apnea occurs two to three times more often among adults over the age of 65.
The sleep apnea and diabetes connection
A study presented at the 65th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association found that about 40 percent of all men who have diabetes also suffer from sleep apnea. Among those diabetics aged 65 or older, about 61 percent had sleep apnea. Scientists in Germany have discovered that untreated sleep apnea can lead to increased insulin resistance, making it more difficult to control blood sugar levels. In addition, reports from the Mayo Clinic show sleep apnea and high blood pressure can go hand-in-hand as well.
There are many other potential complications for those with untreated sleep apnea, such as heart disease and hypertension. Severe fatigue associated with sleep apnea can also lead to problems with behavior, mood swings, depression, memory problems and more.
Treatments for sleep apnea
Fortunately, there are effective treatments for the condition. Lifestyle changes, such as losing weight or quitting smoking, can help reduce the problem. The most common treatment beyond lifestyle change is the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, or CPAP machine. The CPAP works by delivering a constant stream of air pressure through a mask that fits over your nose.
For those who find the mask cumbersome or uncomfortable, there are other options. Adjustable airway devices, oral appliances designed to keep your throat open and various surgeries are all potential treatments. If you are showing any symptoms of sleep apnea, or if those living in the house with you have mentioned your snoring, mention your concerns to your doctor. A one-night sleep study can often be enough to diagnose sleep apnea and put you on the road to a healthier life.
