Spotlight Video | All About Sleep Apnea | Anit T. Patel, MD
Dr. Anit T. Patel, MD is a well-regarded physician who has been providing care to patients in the Plymouth, Weymouth, Bourne, and Hyannis areas since 1987. He is a board-certified attending otolaryngologist and sleep medicine physician at Plymouth Ear, Nose & Throat and South Shore Sleep Diagnostics. Additionally, Dr. Patel... more
All About Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder that affects how you breathe during sleep. It's characterized by a pattern where your breathing repeatedly starts and stops. Although you might not be fully aware of these breathing disruptions, they can have a profound impact on your sleep quality, leaving you feeling fatigued during the day.
The Two Main Types of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea primarily falls into two categories:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea: This is the more common form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the muscles at the back of your throat relax excessively, causing a temporary blockage of your airway. These muscles support vital structures like the uvula, tonsils, tongue, and the sidewalls of the throat. As they relax during sleep, your airway narrows or closes, disrupting your breathing. The most noticeable symptoms include snorting, choking, or gasping as often as 5 to 30 times per hour throughout the night.
Central Sleep Apnea: This type is less common and happens when your brain doesn't transmit proper signals to the muscles responsible for controlling your breathing. As a result, your body makes little to no effort to breathe for brief periods until you wake up gasping for air. The symptoms of central sleep apnea can be similar to those of obstructive sleep apnea, making it tricky to distinguish between the two.
Risk Factors and Complications
Sleep apnea can affect anyone, from children to the elderly. However, certain risk factors increase your likelihood of developing this disorder, including:
- Excess weight
- A thick neck circumference
- A narrowed airway
- Being male
- Advancing age
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Substance use: drugs and alcohol
- Smoking
If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to an array of complications, including depression, irritability, high blood pressure, and heart problems, among others. Recognizing the symptoms and seeking early treatment can help alleviate these issues and prevent more severe health effects from occurring.
In conclusion, if you're struggling with the symptoms mentioned or suspect you may have sleep apnea, don't hesitate to reach out to a medical professional. Diagnosis and treatment are essential steps to restore restful sleep and ensure your long-term health and well-being.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, consult a specialist like Dr. Patel today.
https://www.findatopdoc.com/doctor/3066698-Anit-Patel-Ear-Nose-and-Throat-Doctor-ENT
