Sleep Apnea is a sleep disorder that affects many people worldwide, including those in Gurgaon, India. It causes interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can lead to disturbed sleep patterns, fatigue, and other health complications. In this article, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, types, and treatment options for sleep apnea, including medical and surgical treatments available.. Whether you're seeking sleep apnea treatment in Gurgaon or want to learn more about the condition, this article covers everything you need to know.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a condition where a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts while they are sleeping. The most common type is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), where the muscles at the back of the throat relax excessively, blocking the upper airway. This leads to a drop in oxygen levels in the blood, causing distorted sleep. Other types include central sleep apnea (CSA), where the brain fails to send the correct signals to the muscles that control breathing, and mixed or complex sleep apnea, which is a combination of both OSA and CSA.
Who Does Sleep Apnea Affect?
Sleep apnea can affect anyone, regardless of age or gender, though it is more common in people who are overweight, have a family history of sleep apnea, or have certain medical conditions like hypertension. Men are more likely to develop sleep apnea than women, though the risk increases for women after menopause.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
The symptoms of sleep apnea can be disruptive and vary from person to person. Common signs include:
Loud snoring
Pauses in breathing during sleep, often observed by a bed partner
Gasping or choking during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Morning headaches
Difficulty concentrating
Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek a sleep apnea diagnosis from a medical professional.
Causes of Sleep Apnea
The causes of sleep apnea may vary. Common reasons include:
Obesity: Extra weight, particularly around the neck, can obstruct the airway.
Age: Sleep apnea is more common in older adults.
Anatomical factors: Structural issues like enlarged tonsils, adenoids, or a thick neck may contribute to sleep apnea.
Family history: A genetic predisposition can increase the risk.
Nasal congestion: Blocked nasal airways can lead to breathing difficulties during sleep.
Types of Sleep Apnea
There are three primary types of sleep apnea:
Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, caused by the relaxation of throat muscles blocking the airway.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when the brain fails to send the correct signals to muscles that control breathing.
Mixed or Complex Sleep Apnea: A combination of both OSA and CSA.
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
There are several factors that have an effect and may lead to the development of sleep apnea, including:
Obesity or being overweight
Family history of sleep apnea
Smoking and alcohol use
Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or heart disease
Older age
Gender (men are more prone than women)
How is Sleep Apnea Diagnosed?
To diagnose sleep apnea, doctors often conduct a thorough evaluation that includes:
Sleep study (Polysomnography): This test monitors brain waves, heart rate, breathing patterns, and oxygen levels during sleep.
Home sleep apnea test (HSAT): This is a simpler at-home version of the polysomnography test.
A doctor may also look for signs of sleep apnea during a physical exam, such as enlarged tonsils or a thick neck.
Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea
There are various treatment options for sleep apnea, depending on the severity and type of the condition. Treatment options include:
Conservative (Nonmedical) Treatments
Lifestyle changes: Weight loss, avoiding alcohol, and sleeping on your side can help reduce the severity of sleep apnea.
Supportive therapy for sleep apnea: Using humidifiers or adjusting sleep position may improve breathing.
Positive Airway Pressure and Adaptive Ventilation Devices
CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure): This is the most common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. It uses a machine to deliver continuous airflow to keep the airway open during sleep.
BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure): Similar to CPAP, but with two levels of pressure—one for inhaling and one for exhaling.
Oral Appliances (Mouthpieces)
Custom-fitted oral appliances can help keep the airway open by repositioning the jaw or tongue during sleep.
Nerve Stimulators
Devices like the Inspire therapy system can stimulate the nerves controlling the tongue to prevent airway collapse.
Surgery for Sleep Apnea
In cases where other treatments don’t work, sleep apnea surgery may be necessary. Some common surgical treatments include:
Somnoplasty: A minimally invasive procedure to shrink tissues in the airway.
Tonsillectomy/adenoidectomy: Removal of tonsils or adenoids to open up the airway.
Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP): Surgical removal of excess tissue in the throat to clear the airway.
Jaw surgery: In some cases, surgery to reposition the jaw may help.
Nasal surgery: Correcting structural issues in the nasal passages.
Complications/Side Effects of Sleep Apnea Treatment
Though treatments can be highly effective, there are potential side effects of sleep apnea treatment, including:
Dry mouth or nasal congestion from CPAP use
Discomfort with oral appliances
Surgical risks like infection or bleeding
Sleep disturbances if the treatment is not properly adjusted
Why Choose Artemis Hospitals, Gurugram for Sleep Apnea Treatment?
At Artemis Hospitals, we offer expert care for individuals suffering from sleep apnea. Our team of specialists is equipped with advanced technology to diagnose and treat all types of sleep apnea, including obstructive, central, and mixed sleep apnea. Whether you need non-medical treatments, CPAP therapy, or surgical interventions, we provide personalized care to suit your needs.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms of sleep apnea, such as loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, or excessive daytime fatigue, our experts are here to help.
Call us today at +91-124-451-1111 or WhatsApp us at +91-959-928-5476. You can also easily schedule an appointment through our online patient portal or download the Artemis Personal Health Record mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices. Your health is our priority—let us help you take the next step toward better sleep and improved quality of life.
FAQ’s
Is Sleep Apnea Dangerous?
Yes, sleep apnea is dangerous if left untreated. It can lead to a variety of health issues, including:
Can Sleep Apnea Be Cured Without CPAP?
While CPAP is the most common and effective treatment, sleep apnea can sometimes be managed or improved through lifestyle changes (weight loss, avoiding alcohol), oral appliances, and in some cases, surgery.
How Sleep Apnea Disrupts Your Sleep Cycle
Sleep apnea can disrupt your sleep cycle by causing frequent awakenings throughout the night due to breathing pauses. This results in fragmented sleep, leading to excessive daytime sleepiness, reduced cognitive function, and overall poor health.
How Can I Reduce My Risk or Prevent Sleep Apnea?
To reduce your risk of developing sleep apnea, consider:
Maintaining a healthy weight
Avoiding alcohol and sedatives
Sleeping on your side
Keeping nasal passages clear
Can Sleep Apnea Be Cured by Surgery?
In some cases, surgery may provide a permanent solution to obstructive sleep apnea by removing or repositioning the tissues causing airway blockage.
Which Type of Doctor is Best for Sleep Apnea?
The best doctors for sleep apnea include:
How Can I Book an Appointment for Sleep Apnea Treatment at Artemis Hospitals?
If you're looking for sleep apnea treatment in Gurgaon, you can easily book an appointment with our sleep specialists at Artemis Hospitals by visiting our website or calling our helpline.
Is There a Surgical Option for Sleep Apnea at Artemis Hospitals?
Yes, Artemis Hospitals offers various surgical options for sleep apnea, including somnoplasty, Tonsillectomy, UPPP, and other advanced procedures to treat obstructive sleep apnea.
