Sleep apnea is a serious condition that causes repetitive stops in respiratory flow during sleep.

The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, which occurs when the upper airways become clogged during sleep. CPAP is the best treatment so far.

Signs and symptoms of sleep apnea

• Daytime drowsiness
• Sound snoring followed by silent pauses
• Short of breath or suffocation during sleep
• Morning headache
• Irritability and mood swing
• Poor concentration or memory loss
• Loss of libido
• Drowsiness while driving

Untreated sleep apnea can cause serious health problems and the following complications:

• High blood pressure
• Stroke
• Heart attack
• Motor vehicle collision
• Depression
• Decreased libido
• Injury at work

Treatment

There are simple and effective ways to treat sleep apnea. Treatments vary depending on the severity of apnea. Doctors can help determine the appropriate type of treatment. The most used treatment is CPAP. CPAP is a special mask connected to a air pressure machine that ensures that the throat is not obstructed and prevents snoring and respiratory arrest. The CPAP Sleep Apnea Clinic offers major CPAP brands and masks such as Fisher and Paykel and Philips (Respironics).

In addition to wearing CPAP, you can improve your obstructive sleep apnea by:

• Losing weight
• Exercising
• Quitting smoking
• Having good sleep hygiene
• Avoid alcohol and sleeping pills
• Sleeping on the side