What is sleep apnea? How is sleep apnea treated? Here are the details

 



A sleep illness called sleep apnea causes breathing to stop and start frequently. It can cause loud snoring, sleep disturbances, morning headaches, daily lethargy, and mood swings. Adenoids and tonsils that are enlarged, anatomical abnormalities, and being overweight are among the causes. Metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, liver issues, and daily weariness can all be consequences of untreated sleep apnea.


Prevention and lifestyle changes, such as giving up drinking, exercising frequently, leading a healthy lifestyle, and stopping smoking, can help lessen symptoms. Lifestyle changes, including stopping smoking, working out frequently, leading a healthy lifestyle, and consuming less alcohol, are examples of treatment possibilities. Therapies and surgery, including adenoidectomy, UPPP, and septoplasty, may be recommended if lifestyle modifications are ineffective.


Prior to beginning self-care routines, it is crucial to speak with a healthcare professional because controlling sleep apnea can also be aided by quitting smoking, decreasing weight, and sleeping on your side. Pulmonologists, sleep medicine experts, psychologists, and dentists are among the professionals who treat sleep apnea.


Can children have sleep apnea too?


Common sleep abnormalities in children include central sleep apnea (CSA), swollen tonsils, and childhood obesity. Due to a restricted or clogged airway, which is frequently brought on by swollen tonsils and adenoids, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is more common. Childhood obesity, a tiny jaw, an overbite, the use of sedatives or opioids, and weakness in the muscles of the neck or tongue are risk factors. Breathing pauses, loud snoring, sleep disturbances, excessive daytime tiredness, and behavioral problems are among the symptoms. 


Diagnosis is possible through tests, and treatment includes lifestyle changes, removal of enlarged tonsils and adenoids, and other therapies. Central Sleep Apnea (CSA) is less common in children compared to OSA. Causes of pediatric sleep apnea include enlarged tonsils and adenoids, childhood obesity, small jaw, overbite, sedative or opioid use, and muscle weakness. 


A family history of obstructive sleep apnea increases the risk. Untreated sleep apnea can lead to learning difficulties, behavioral issues, growth problems, and heart complications. Consult a pediatrician for proper evaluation and management, as early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for better outcomes.


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