Sleep Apnea
Sleep Apnea is defined as a breathing disorder that occurs in one’s sleep. It is caused by lack of air getting into the lungs through the mouth and nose. The throat muscles prevent proper airflow to the lungs. When this happens, the level of oxygen in the blood drops considerably. After a Sleep Apnea episode, the sleeper makes a loud snort or a choking sound, and the breathing pattern resumes.
One of the effects of Sleep Apnea is lack of energy and drowsiness the day following because of the lack of deep sleep the night before. When the sleeper has episodes of Sleep Apnea, they do not get the proper sleep and it makes for a restless night.
Snoring and Sleep Apnea are commonly mistaken for one another. Because of the snort, when breathing is resumed, bed partners assume it is a snoring sound.
The most common suffers of Sleep Apnea are overweight people. This is not a general rule, because there are cases of this disorder in others as well. The person who suffers from it is not usually aware of it. Frequently, people who snore also show signs of Sleep Apnea. Again, this is not a general rule because others have been diagnosed with this disorder who do not snore.
Once this disorder is identified, the person should seek proper medical treatment since Sleep Apnea can increase the development of heart problems which can cause a stroke or heart attack. Studies have also shown that there is a direct connection between Sleep Apnea and diabetes.
If you or anyone you know suffers from some of the above symptoms, consult a physician for immediate treatment.