Sleep apnea is a common disorder that affects millions of men and women and children but is often undiagnosed, despite the potentially serious consequences of the disorder. Clinically, apnea is defined in adults as a cessation of breath that lasts at least ten seconds. When obstructive sleep apnea occurs, the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses and closes the airway. Sleep apnea sufferers stop breathing repeatedly during sleep, as frequently as a hundred times an hour. With each apnea, the brain receives a signal to arouse the person from sleep in order to begin breathing again. Consequently, the person is getting extremely fragmented sleep and of poor quality.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
People with untreated sleep apnea may only be aware of being extremely sleepy during the day, yet may be unaware of the frequent awakenings during the night. They may realize that they snore or gasp for air during sleep. Loud snoring, punctuated with periods of silence (the apneas), is typical but not always present.
Consequences of Untreated Sleep Apnea
People with untreated sleep apnea may develop high blood pressure and other cardiovascular disease, and weight gain. They may also find they fall asleep inappropriately, have headaches, memory problems, feelings of depression, reflux, nocturia (the need to use the bathroom frequently at night), and impotence.
Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea Disorder
Family history of sleep apnea
Excess weight
A large neck
A recessed chin or lower jaw
Male
Abnormalities in the structure of the upper airway
Ethnicity (notably African-Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Mexicans)
Smoking
Alcohol use
Treatment
Different treatment options exist, depending on the severity of the patient’s apnea and other aspects of the disorder. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are trained in the diagnosis and treatment of this disorder. When appropriate, sleep apnea patients may be fitted with an oral appliance to prevent sleep apnea from occurring. If conservative methods fail to correct the problem, surgery may be indicated. Surgical procedures can involve the soft tissue of the palate and throat or the hard tissue of the lower jaw (jaw advancement and/or chin advancement). Talk to your doctor about the options best for your condition.