Sleep Apnea

Matt Walker on Sleep Apnea

• Sleep apnea: a disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep 
  • Obstructive sleep apnea: caused by a blockage in the airway
  • Central sleep apnea: caused by the brain not sending proper signals to the muscles that control breathing
• Consequences of sleep apnea: 
  • Fragmented sleep, leading to daytime sleepiness and cognitive impairment
  • Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, and diabetes
  • Negative impact on mood and mental health
• Diagnosis and treatment: 
  • Sleep study to diagnose the severity of sleep apnea
  • Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy: the most common and effective treatment 
    • Delivers a constant flow of air through a mask to keep the airway open
    • Can be uncomfortable, but compliance is crucial for effective treatment
  • Lifestyle changes: weight loss, avoiding alcohol and sedatives, and positional therapy
  • Surgical options: uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), genioglossus advancement (GA), and maxillomandibular advancement (MMA)
    • Reserved for severe cases or when other treatments have failed
    • Can have significant side effects and recovery time
• Importance of treating sleep apnea: 
  • Improved sleep quality, cognitive function, and overall health
  • Reduced risk of long-​​term health complications
  • Enhanced mood and mental well-being