Sleep Apnea Information

You are probably searching for information on what causes sleep apnea, this condition is widespread and due to this fact there have been many studies and research into it. These studies have resulted in mixed results and some medical researchers are not in full agreement to the cause of it. To get a clearer picture we need to understand the different types of sleep apnea and the underlying conditions that come with it.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are many causes, because there are many different types of sleep apnea. The most prevalent type is (OSA)Obstructive sleep apnea which is caused by the breathing being obstructed. The air pathway that allows air to flow in the throat or nose closes or even collapses, which in turn reduces the normal breathing pattern.

Another type is (CSA) Central sleep apnea which seems to be a result of a miscommunication between the central nervous system and the brain which tells the body to breathe. This type of sleep apnea is most likely caused by a disease, stroke or injury to the brain.

You can also get a combination of both which is called mixed sleep apnea and the required treatment must take both conditions into account. Opening up a airway alone is usually not sufficient for this condition, you must also improve the connection between the nervous system and the brain through drug therapy.

Whist doctors don’t agree on a definite answer to what cause sleep apnea, there seems to be several conditions evident in patients who have the disorder. People with narrow necks are more vulnerable to the condition because they have a smaller airway passage for air to flow through. Sleep apnea is also common in people with large tonsils and receding chins.

People who smoke or drink a lot of alcohol are also more prone to this condition. Sufferers of sleep apnea are also found to have high blood pressure or heart irregularities, but these problems are not 100% linked to sleep apnea.

It still isn’t fully clear what causes sleep apnea, but if you are diagnosed with this condition it is always best to get prompt and accurate treatment from your doctor.