What Is Apnea?
Apnea is a temporary pause in breathing that may occur during sleep or, less commonly, while awake. The most common type is sleep apnea, in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts throughout the night. These breathing interruptions can reduce oxygen levels, disrupt sleep, and increase the risk of serious health problems if left untreated.
The three main types of sleep apnea are obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA), and complex sleep apnea syndrome.
Why Apnea Matters
Untreated sleep apnea can contribute to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, daytime fatigue, memory problems, and an increased risk of motor vehicle accidents due to excessive sleepiness.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Loud snoring
- Pauses in breathing during sleep
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Excessive daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Dry mouth upon waking
- Poor-quality sleep
Common Risk Factors
- Excess body weight
- Older age
- Family history
- Large neck circumference
- Smoking
- Alcohol use before bedtime
- Certain anatomical features affecting the airway
How Is Apnea Diagnosed?
Healthcare providers diagnose apnea using a sleep study (polysomnography) or a home sleep apnea test. Additional evaluations may be performed to identify contributing medical conditions.
How Is Apnea Treated?
Treatment depends on the type and severity of apnea and may include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), oral appliances, weight management, positional therapy, surgery, or treatment of underlying medical conditions.
How Home Care Can Help
Home care professionals assist individuals by encouraging consistent use of CPAP or BiPAP equipment, monitoring for changes in breathing or sleep quality, supporting healthy lifestyle habits, and reinforcing treatment recommendations from healthcare providers.
Home Care Tip
If you use a CPAP or BiPAP machine, clean the equipment regularly and use it every night as prescribed to achieve the greatest health benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Apnea
Is snoring always a sign of sleep apnea?
No. Many people snore without having sleep apnea, but loud snoring combined with pauses in breathing or excessive daytime sleepiness should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.
Can sleep apnea be treated?
Yes. Many individuals experience significant improvement with CPAP therapy, lifestyle changes, or other treatments recommended by their healthcare provider.
Can home care help people with sleep apnea?
Yes. Home care professionals can reinforce treatment plans, encourage proper use of breathing equipment, monitor symptoms, and support overall health.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience loud snoring with breathing pauses, excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, or difficulty using your prescribed CPAP or BiPAP device.