What is sleep apnea?
The simplest definition of sleep apnea is that you stop breathing when you sleep. Obviously, there is a lot more to it, and there are several different forms of it, but the end result is the same—breathing stops when you are asleep.
Types of sleep apnea
The two most commonly discussed types of sleep apnea are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which is when your airway partially or totally collapses, causing a restriction of air, and central sleep apnea (CSA), which is when your brain is not telling you to keep breathing.
Sleep apnea is not only scary, but it is also a serious medical condition which, if left untreated, can lead to a higher chance of serious health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity.
How do I find out if I have sleep apnea?
Have you ever been told you snore?
Do you wake up each morning with a headache?
Do you fall asleep during the day, even though you slept well the night before?
Ever have memory loss or difficulty concentrating?
Have you ever been told you stop breathing during the night?
If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, it’s important you speak with your doctor as these may be signs you have sleep apnea. Not only is getting an accurate diagnosis important, if left untreated, sleep apnea patients have a higher chance of having serious health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and obesity.
While the idea of having sleep apnea may be scary, the good news is that it is manageable and you can live a healthy, active life. True, positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy will take some adjustment, but the difference it will make in your energy level, productivity and concentration is immeasurable.
What about your friends and family? Do you know of someone who exhibits some of these signs? You should encourage them to speak with their doctor about sleep apnea as well.
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