Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep-related respiratory condition. In a healthy person’s body, air flows smoothly from the mouth and nose to the lungs at all times, even while sleeping. Apnea or apneic episodes are periods in which the normal process of breathing ceases altogether. Obstructive sleep apnea is primarily caused by several factors, including the relaxing of the throat muscles, narrowing or closing of the patient’s airway, and the disruption of proper air intake. The lack of air typically leads to a drop in the blood oxygen level. Individuals may gasp, snort, or wake up choking in order to reopen their airways. The sleep disturbances are often so brief that the patient is not aware they have woken up. However, this pattern can occur anywhere from five to over thirty times each hour throughout the night, making it impossible to get a restful sleep.
In this guide, we will discuss everything related to obstructive sleep apnea, from causes and symptoms to risk factors and treatments.
What Causes Obstructive Sleep Apnea?
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of the throat relax too much to enable regular breathing. These muscles support the tongue, the side walls of the throat, and the soft palate, which is also known as the back of the roof of the mouth. When these muscles relax, the airway narrows or closes as you inhale. This can lead to a buildup of CO2 and lower oxygen levels in the blood. When your brain detects obstructed breathing, it briefly wakes you up to allow you to reopen your airway. These disruptions hinder your ability to enter the deep, restorative phases of sleep, and you will most likely feel sleepy during your waking hours.
The following are some medical conditions which can lead to OSA.
- Obesity hypoventilation syndrome is a respiratory disorder that affects obese individuals who also underbreathe during the day.
- Endocrine conditions, including acromegaly, hypothyroidism, and polycystic ovary syndrome, may impact your breathing while you sleep.
- Chronic lung disorders such as pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Neuromuscular conditions, such as strokes, can disrupt brain signals to your airway and chest muscles.
- Heart or kidney failure can result in fluid accumulation in your neck, which may block your upper airway.
Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea include:
- Loud snoring.
- Excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Observed periods of halted breathing while asleep.
- Waking up gasping or choking during the night.
- Experiencing a sore throat or dry mouth when you wake up in the morning.
- Morning headaches and fatigue.
- Having difficulties focusing during the day.
- Mood changes, such as depression or irritability.
- High blood pressure.
- Loss of interest in sex.
Complications Related to Obstructive Sleep Apnea
As obstructive sleep apnea hinders proper, restorative sleep, daytime sleepiness and fatigue have become the most common side effects of OSA. Due to the sudden drops in oxygen levels caused by obstructive sleep apnea, persons with OSA are at risk for a variety of serious health conditions, such as,
- High blood pressure (Hypertension): Blood pressure rises due to low blood oxygen levels
- Atrial fibrillation: An irregular beating of the heart
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Stroke
- Diabetes: OSA patients are more likely to develop insulin resistance
- Liver issues: Abnormal liver functions and liver scarring are more common in OSA patients.
Obstructive sleep apnea can lead to complications with specific medications or general anaesthesia, which is a major concern when sedation or surgery is required. Patients with underlying heart disease are at higher risk from sleep apnea, as repeated oxygen deprivation and cardiovascular stress can trigger dangerous arrhythmias, potentially leading to sudden cardiac arrest. Other risks of OSA include:
- Increased stress.
- Skin aging.
- Memory loss.
- Depression.
- Increased risk of vehicle and work-related accidents due to fatigue or lack of focus.
How is Obstructive Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
In order to diagnose OSA, healthcare providers or sleep specialists typically review your medical history, conduct a physical exam, and perform tests. During the examination, your doctor will thoroughly check your mouth, neck, and throat. They will also inquire about your symptoms at night and during the day. OSA can be diagnosed using two types of tests, which include:
- Overnight sleep study (polysomnography)
During this sleep study, you will be connected to various devices that monitor your heart, lung, and brain activities, as well as your breathing patterns while asleep. The test also tracks arm and leg movements as well as blood oxygen levels.
- Home sleep apnea tests
In some cases, you may be able to diagnose obstructive sleep apnea with an at-home polysomnography test. These home apnea testing kits only monitor a limited set of variables such as breathing, oxygen levels, and breathing effort to identify breathing pauses during sleep.
SG SLEEP SOLUTIONS – Experienced Specialists of Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Singapore
SG SLEEP SOLUTION, a certified sleep specialist in Singapore, provides comprehensive sleep study services to help diagnose and treat sleep disorders effectively. We offer personalised care and ongoing support throughout a person’s journey to quality sleep. Our dedicated team of sleep specialists are always ready to assist you whether you are seeking solutions for insomnia and snoring or obstructive sleep apnea treatment. If you are interested in learning more about our offerings, get in touch with us today!
