Sleep apnea is an important sleep disorder where individuals experience irregular breathing and a pause while sleeping. Pauses in breathing could last as long as 10 to 20 seconds and may occur 30 times or more per hour. There are two types of sleep apnea. The first is obstructive sleep apnea and the second is central sleep apnea.
Breathing is either reduced or stopped if you have sleep apnea. Simply the most common sign of sleep apnea is when breathing stops for at least 10 seconds. In this write up we will examine some of the other sleep apnea signs.
Declining Oxygen Levels
Since apnea is characterized as an absolute cessation of airflow or significant reduction, which results in at least a 4% decline in the oxygen saturation level within blood. This occurs as a direct consequence of decline in the transfer rate of oxygen through the blood at the time breathing ceases. This is one of the most significant signs of sleep apnea.
Sleep Disturbance
Sleep can be severely interrupted. You may even wake up fully. You may wake from a deep sleep and still stay in a lighter sleep. This is a common sign and is why sleep apnea measured while sleeping.
Headaches and Dry Throats
These are also common signs. When you have sleep apnea and wake in the morning you will probably have a dry throat. This can be very uncomfortable and become a hindrance in trying to breathe. A morning headache will also add to a person feeling tired after a nights sleep.
Drowsiness during the Day
People with sleep apnea have such a difficult time because of the sleeping patterns to reach a restful sleep. They can become tired during the day. Their evening sleep can also include loud snoring or snorting.
Lack of Oxygen
One of the most common signs of sleep apnea includes a sharp decline in the oxygen level, which poses a serious threat to cardiovascular system. Since the cardiovascular system has to work more efficiently and an effortful manner in order to supply the adequate amount of oxygen to all tissues, it leads to the development of high blood pressure, eventually increasing the risk for heart attack and stroke.
Tags: Health
