Table of Contents
1. What is Apnea (Apnoea)?
Apnea (also spelled apnoea) is a medical term for when a person stops breathing for a period of time. It is usually caused by an obstruction in the airway or an imbalance in the air pressure in the lungs. Apnea can be a potentially life-threatening condition, and is most commonly seen in infants and young children.
2. What causes Apnea (Apnoea)?
Apnea can be caused by a variety of factors, including airway obstruction (such as an enlarged tongue, enlarged tonsils, or an abnormal soft palate), anatomical abnormalities (such as a small jaw or an abnormally-shaped airway), or a neurological disorder (such as a seizure disorder).
3. How is Apnea (Apnoea) diagnosed?
Apnea is usually diagnosed through a physical examination and history, as well as various tests such as a sleep study, an electroencephalogram, or a chest x-ray.
4. What are the symptoms of Apnea (Apnoea)?
The most common symptoms of apnea are snoring, daytime sleepiness, and pauses in breathing during sleep. Other symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, irritability, and morning headaches.
5. What are the long-term effects of Apnea (Apnoea)?
Long-term effects of apnea can include high blood pressure, heart problems, stroke, and an increased risk of diabetes.
6. What are the treatments for Apnea (Apnoea)?
Treatments for apnea may include lifestyle changes (such as avoiding alcohol and sleeping on your side), positional therapy (such as sleeping with your head elevated), and continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy. In severe cases, surgery may be recommended.
7. Is Apnea (Apnoea) preventable?
Apnea is not usually preventable, but there are some lifestyle changes that can be made to reduce the risk of developing it. These include avoiding smoking and alcohol, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding sleeping on your back.
8. Are there any home remedies for Apnea (Apnoea)?
There are no home remedies that are proven to cure or treat apnea, but certain lifestyle changes may help reduce symptoms. These include avoiding sleeping on your back, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.
9. How can Apnea (Apnoea) be monitored?
Apnea can be monitored through a sleep study or an electroencephalogram.
10. What are the risks of untreated Apnea (Apnoea)?
Untreated apnea can lead to an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart problems, stroke, and diabetes. It can also increase the risk of having car accidents due to drowsiness. In severe cases, it can lead to death.