What causes sleep apnea people with sleep apnea have obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when you have a physical blockage in your upper airway. But the other type, central sleep apnea, is due to a problem in your brain’s signaling system that causes you to stop breathing repeatedly during sleep. Both types can cause low levels of oxygen in the blood, which leads to a variety of symptoms.
Daytime sleepiness and trouble concentrating. Loud snoring at night. Waking up feeling like you’re choking or gasping. People with this condition are at higher risk for heart disease and high blood pressure (hypertension).
What Causes Sleep Apnea? Uncovering the Risk Factors
Obstructive sleep apnea happens when your throat muscles relax during sleep and close up your windpipe. It can also occur when your tongue presses against your airway. Having a narrow throat, large tonsils, or a thick neck can increase your risk of having this kind of sleep apnea. Being overweight may also contribute to it. Smoking and using alcohol or sedatives before going to sleep can worsen your snoring and make it more difficult for you to breathe during sleep.
A change in your normal sleeping position can help you breathe easier at night. You can buy special pillows or mattresses designed to encourage sleeping on your side instead of on your back. Avoiding alcohol at night may be a part of your treatment plan for obstructive sleep apnea. You should tell any new doctors you see about your sleep apnea, as well, so they can take it into account when reviewing your medical history.