http://www.infobarrel.com/What_is_Obstructive_Sleep_Apnea%3f published May 25, 2009

What is Obstructive Sleep Apnea?

by passiveincome What is Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is a medical condition that affects millions of Americans each night. It is typically characterized when a person stops breathing more than 10 seconds during sleep. The severity of the condition is determined by how many times you experience these episodes.

This condition is typically caused by the air passages in the throat, nose, or mouth being blocked or obstructed in some manner. Most of the time the soft tissue at the back of the throat collapses and inhibits your ability to breathe.

What are the symptoms of sleep apnea?

Many people suffer from sleep apnea but may be completed unaware that they do so. A few of the major symptoms include waking up exhausted in the morning, even after a full night's rest, waking up with a headache and difficulty concentrating. Others include tossing and turning while sleeping and hearing high pitch sounds that no one else seems to hear.

Perhaps the most noticeable symptom is choking or gasping while sleeping. Most of the time this gasping will actually wake you up. Additionally, ninety percent of people who have sleep apnea also snore.

If you, or someone you know, has any of these symptoms, you may have sleep apnea.

Who is at risk of getting sleep apnea?

While anyone, including children, can get sleep apnea, there are a few types of individuals who are more prone to getting this condition than others. It has been shown that people who are overweight get this condition more than those people who are not. Additionally, African-American males, and Hispanic males, have a high likelihood of getting obstructive sleep apnea than other races.

What are the best sleep apnea treatments available?

Suffering from sleep apnea is a terrible experience. Besides the fact that you never feel completely rested, sleep apnea actually damages your body. Luckily there are a few treatments that have been shown to help you sleep better and get a full night's rest.

Sleep Apnea Machines

If your condition is severe, it will most likely require the use of a CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. These machines are attached to a mask that is wore over the nose and mouth and blows a continuous stream of air, keeping your airways unblocked. These machines can take while to get used to.

At first, it may seem that there is no way you will be able to sleep with air being blown down your throat. After a few nights, however, your body will adjust and you will rest much more soundly. When you are being fitted for your mask, I would recommend considering just the nostril mask. I went with the smaller mask instead and I honestly detest it.

Dental Devices

While many people who experience sleep apnea must use a CPAP machine, some are fortunate enough to be able to use a less costly device. This devices are becoming increasingly popular as a low cost alternative to expensive equipment. These devices reposition the tongue and jaw, allowing free passage of air and reducing nightly obstructions. Amazon sells a device called The Snore Wizard, which claims a 94% success rate.

Surgery

If you have a deviated septum, or other severe condition, surgery may be the only viable alternative. Always talk over all of the possible scenarios with you doctor. If surgery seems to be the only choice, always seek a second opinion from another qualified professional.

Living with obstructive sleep apnea does not have to be a miserable experience. Lose a little weight, avoid consuming alcoholic beverages near bedtime and consider a few of the sleep apnea treatments discussed above.