What Are The Causes of Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder affecting many people worldwide. It’s a condition that is characterized by breathing pauses and interruptions during sleep, which can last for a few seconds up to a minute. The disruption of normal breathing can occur several times in an hour, leaving you feeling tired, irritable, and sleepy during the day. While sleep apnea can occur to anyone, certain factors increase your risk of developing the disorder. This article explores the causes of sleep apnea and how you can manage or prevent it.

Obesity

One of the primary causes of sleep apnea is obesity. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of obstructive sleep apnea, a type of sleep apnea, where the throat and tongue muscles relax, blocking the airflow to the lungs. Obesity leads to excessive fat buildup around the neck and throat area, which narrows the airway, making it difficult to breathe during sleep.

Genetics

Genetics is another cause of sleep apnea. It’s a common condition in families, indicating that it may be genetic. Certain physical traits, such as throat structure, nasal congestion, and tongue size, can be inherited from parents, increasing the risk of developing sleep apnea.

Smoking

Smoking is another cause of sleep apnea. According to research, smoking irritates the airway, causing inflammation and swelling, making it difficult for air to pass through. Smoking also increases the risk of other respiratory conditions, such as asthma and COPD, which can worsen sleep apnea symptoms.

Alcohol and Sedatives

Alcohol and sedatives are substances that can relax the throat muscles, making it difficult for air to pass through. Drinking alcohol or taking sedatives before sleep can worsen sleep apnea symptoms, leading to more breathing pauses and oxygen deprivation.

Age

Lastly, age is another factor that can cause sleep apnea. As you get older, the muscles in the throat and airway tend to relax, leading to breathing pauses and snoring during sleep. Sleep apnea is prevalent in adults over 60 years old, and the condition is more common in men than in women.

Contact Us Today!

Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder affecting many people worldwide. Although the causes of sleep apnea are diverse, certain lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and quitting smoking, can help manage or prevent the condition. If you experience any sleep apnea symptoms, such as snoring, choking, or gasping during sleep, talk to your dentist or doctor as soon as possible. At Friendly Dental, we offer sleep apnea treatment, and we can help you manage the condition for better sleep and overall health. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.