Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide, with estimates stating that 11% of the population in India suffers from it. 

It is characterised by pauses in breathing or shallow breaths during sleep. These pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes and occur multiple times per hour. There are several types of sleep apnea, with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) being the most common.

This article will focus on OSA, its symptoms, risks, and available treatment options.

Symptoms of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

The symptoms that are commonly observed include loud snoring, difficulty breathing during sleep, and daytime drowsiness or fatigue. Other symptoms that people might experience include headaches during the start of the day, dry mouth or sore throat upon waking, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. 

It's crucial to note that not everyone with OSA will experience all of these symptoms, and the severity of symptoms can vary.

Risks Associated with Untreated Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Untreated OSA can lead to several serious health complications, including but not limited to -

  • High Blood Pressure: OSA can cause an increase in blood pressure, which can stress the cardiovascular system and increase the chances of stroke and other similar conditions.
  • Heart Disease: People with OSA are at a greater risk of developing heart disease, including heart attacks, atrial fibrillation, and heart failure.
  • Type 2 Diabetes: OSA is associated with insulin resistance and can increase the risk of the patient developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Obesity: Obesity is a common risk factor for OSA, and the two conditions often coexist. OSA can also contribute to weight gain due to its impact on metabolism.
  • Depression: OSA has been linked to an increased risk of depression and other mood disorders.

If you suspect you have obstructive sleep apnea, it is important to seek medical consultation immediately.

Diagnosis of the ailment typically involves a sleep study, either at a sleep centre or using a home sleep apnea test.

Once diagnosed, treatment options for OSA may include the following:

  • Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): CPAP therapy is the most common and effective treatment for OSA. This process involves wearing a mask over the nose or nose and mouth during sleep, which delivers a continuous flow of air to keep the airway open.
  • Oral Appliances: Some patients with mild to moderate OSA may benefit from oral appliances that help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw or tongue.
  • Lifestyle Changes: Losing extra weight, reducing the consumption of alcohol and similar sedatives before bed, and sleeping on your side instead of your back might help reduce symptoms of OSA.
  • Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be recommended by your doctor to remove excess tissue in the throat or reposition the jaw to improve airflow.

Conclusion

Obstructive sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that can have a significant impact on your health and quality of life. If you suspect you have the ailment, it's important to seek medical evaluation and discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider. With the right treatment, most people with sleep apnea can experience significant improvement in their symptoms and reduce their risk of complications.

About the Doctor 

Dr Vipin Aggarwal is a Pulmonologist with 10 years of experience in East Delhi. He practices at Max Super Speciality Hospital in Patparganj, Delhi, and runs a clinic in Laxmi Nagar, New Delhi.

He completed his MBBS from King Edward Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College in 2014 and MD - Tuberculosis & Respiratory Diseases/Medicine from Smt. Kashibai Naval Medical College and General Hospital in 2018. He excelled in the European Diplomate of Adult Respiratory Medicine in 2019. 

You can check his Practo profile -> https://www.practo.com/delhi/doctor/vipin-aggarwal-pulmonologist/