OUR SPECIALTIES

Sleep Apnea

Home » Sleep Apnea

Geriatric Condition:

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, can last from a few seconds to a minute and may occur 30 times or more an hour. This condition often results in poor sleep quality and excessive daytime sleepiness.

Types

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, caused by the relaxation of throat muscles, which blocks the airway.
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when the brain does not send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea.

Symptoms

Loud snoring (common in OSA)
Episodes of breathing cessation noticed by a partner
Gasping or choking sounds during sleep
Excessive daytime sleepiness
Difficulty concentrating
Morning headache
Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
Irritability or mood changes

Causes

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA):
- Excess weight or obesity
- Enlarged tonsils or adenoids
- Structural abnormalities in the airway
- Family history of OSA
- Alcohol consumption or use of sedatives
- Smoking
Central Sleep Apnea (CSA):
- Heart disorders, such as congestive heart failure
- Stroke
- Use of certain medications, particularly opioids
- High altitude

Impact To Lifestyle

Sleep Quality: Frequent sleep interruptions lead to fragmented, non-restful sleep.
Physical Health: Increased risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and fatigue.
Mental Health: Impaired memory, concentration, and mood, leading to depression and anxiety.
Daily Activities: Reduced ability to perform daily tasks and decreased independence.
Social Engagement: Withdrawal and isolation due to tiredness and irritability.
Safety: Higher risk of accidents due to daytime sleepiness.

Management & Prevention

Management:

Lifestyle Changes:
- Weight loss
- Avoiding alcohol and sedatives
- Sleeping on your side instead of your back
- Establishing a regular sleep schedule
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP):
- A machine that delivers air pressure through a mask to keep the airway open during sleep.
Oral Appliances:
- Devices worn in the mouth to keep the throat open, particularly useful for mild to moderate OSA.
Surgery:
- Procedures to remove or shrink tissues, or reposition the jaw to keep the airway open.
Treatment for Underlying Conditions:
- Managing heart conditions or other factors contributing to CSA.

Prevention:

Maintain a healthy weight.
Avoid alcohol and sedatives, especially before bedtime.
Quit smoking.
Exercise regularly to improve respiratory health.
Treat nasal congestion or allergies promptly.
Practice good sleep hygiene by keeping a consistent sleep schedule and creating a restful sleep environment.

Resources Found In Meridian, Mississippi

Resources Found Nation-Wide

Other Geriatric Conditions

Young man, senior or wheelchair help in nursing home or retirement house in surgery rehabilitation,.

Stroke Rehabilitation

Stroke rehabilitation is the process of recovery and therapy following a stroke, aimed at helping individuals regain as much function ...

Senior man leans on a cane while sitting on sofa in contemplation

Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement. It is characterized by tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), ...