- INTRODUCTION
Feeling constantly tired even after what seems like a full night’s rest? It might be more than simple fatigue. Sleep apnea, a prevalent but sometimes misdiagnosed illness, may be the cause, according to experts at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB).
- WHAT IS SLEEP APNEA?
According to Dr. Brian Kinard from UAB’s School of Dentistry, sleep apnea occurs when a person stops breathing or breathes inadequately while sleeping. The National Council on Aging reports that about 94% of people with sleep apnea snore, which is often the first noticeable symptom. Most of the time, the patient’s companion notices snoring or stops breathing during the night before the patient does.
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, caused when throat muscles relax and block the airway.
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): A rarer form, where the brain fails to send proper signals to the body to continue breathing.
- RISK FACTORS AND PREVENTION
Although everyone may develop sleep apnea, certain individuals are more susceptible than others. Family history, advanced age, and excess weight are common reasons. A narrow throat, larger tonsils or tongue, and hormonal changes following menopause can all be contributing factors.
Dr. Patricia Patterson, director of UAB’s Sleep/Wake Disorders Center, says small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.
“Maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, avoiding sedatives, and sleeping on your side can reduce sleep apnea symptoms,” she explains.
Men, older adults, and people with smaller jawlines are more likely to have OSA. Central sleep apnea, though rare, can occur in people with heart failure, stroke, or those using opioids.
- DIAGNOSIS AND EVOLUTION
If sleep apnea is suspected, doctors usually recommend an overnight sleep study — either in a lab or at home — to measure how often breathing slows or stops. Insurance coverage often determines which test is used.
- TREATMENT OPTIONS
Untreated sleep apnea can cause serious complications such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, fatigue, and even mental health issues. Research also shows that white individuals with diagnosed sleep apnea face a higher stroke risk compared to Black individuals.
The primary treatment for OSA is the Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine, which keeps airways open during sleep. Weight loss and exercise are also encouraged. For those unable to tolerate CPAP, other treatments include oral appliances, positional therapy, or surgery.
Dr. Kinard adds, “CPAP is our first choice, but if it doesn’t work, surgical options like tonsil removal, jaw advancement, or nerve stimulation can help.” According to Patterson, UAB tailors care to the lifestyle and severity of each patient’s ailment.
- SLEEP APNEA IN CHILDREN
Though less common, sleep apnea can also affect children, mainly in the obstructive form. The Mayo Clinic notes that symptoms include snoring, restless sleep, mouth breathing, and even bedwetting. These children may also struggle with focus or perform poorly in school. Doctors usually start by removing tonsils and adenoids before considering advanced treatments.
Recognizing and treating sleep apnea early can transform sleep quality and overall health. Fatigue doesn’t always mean you’re not sleeping enough — sometimes, it means you’re not sleeping well.
