Types of Sleep Apnea: What Should You Know About It?

People can suffer from various types of sleep apnea for a longer period without realizing. The symptoms even get worse if they do not treat the conditions for long. It is a type of sleep disorder where you can experience breathing trouble. People generally snore during sleep if they suffer from sleep apnea. There are mainly three types of sleep apnea - mixed, central and obstructive. Read this article to learn about the different types of this condition so that you can opt for sleep apnea treatment.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

It is one of the most common types of sleep apnea which is also known as OSA. The throat muscles of the patient collapse too much in this condition. As a result, the patient faces difficulties breathing normally. According to the researches, between 4% to 50% of the population suffer from OSA. The person may awake suddenly from deep sleep whenever he or she is unable to breathe normally and their level of oxygen get reduced in her or his body. People who are overweight, or pregnant may suffer more than others. The following symptoms are:

  • Gasping for air during sleep

  • Feeling very tired when awake

  • Headaches

  • Waking from sleep

  • Unable to concentrate at work or school

Central Sleep Apnea

This type of sleep apnea is different from previous conditions as it does not start in the physical blockage in the airways. Our brain sends signals to the body parts and muscles to control breathing. In this condition, the transmission of the signals is disrupted which reduces the oxygen level and causes breathing problems. If you already have a few conditions such as atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure, then these can increase the risk of central sleep apnea. You must consult with the specialist to know about sleep apnea treatment.

What is Mixed Sleep Apnea?

As reported, this type of health condition includes the symptoms of both central and obstructive sleep apnea. People who suffer from OSA take the treatment of a continuous positive airway pressure machine. This treatment develops the signs of central sleep apnea in the patients later. This condition is known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea.

Generally, CPAP machines are used to push a stream of air through a mask into the body. This machine keeps the airways open and restrains any type of blockage. Consequently, you can get a sound sleep at night. Keep in mind that treatment-emergent central sleep apnea which is caused by the CPAP machine is very temporary.

Seek Medication Help

If you notice that your loved ones snore and awake often during sleep, then contact Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, LLC. The doctor may suggest you lose a few pounds and avoid sleeping on your back to prevent this condition.

**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.

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