Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a disorder that affects more than 12 million Americans. Although it’s more common after age 40, it can affect people of all ages. You’re more likely to develop OSA if you are overweight, male, African-American, or Latino. The condition also tends to run in families.
Here are a few myths and facts about OSA collected from webmd.com:
Sleep Apnea Is Just Snoring
Myth. Although snoring can be a sign of sleep apnea, there’s a big difference between the two. People with sleep apnea actually stop breathing up to 400 times throughout the night. These interruptions last 10 to 30 seconds and are often followed by a snort when breathing resumes. This breaks your sleep cycle and can leave you tired during the day.
Sleep Apnea Is Not Dangerous
Myth. All those interruptions in sleep take a toll on the body and mind. Untreated sleep apnea has been linked to job-related injuries, car accidents, heart attacks, and strokes.
Sleep Apnea Blocks Your Breath
Fact. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea or OSA. It happens when your tongue, tonsils, or other isssues in the back of the throat block the airway. When you try to breathe in, the air can’t get through. Central sleep apnea is less common than OSA. Central sleep apnea means the brain doesn’t always signal the body to breathe when it should.
Alcohol Will Help You Sleep
Myth. A nightcap may make you drowsy, but it does not promote good quality sleep. Alcohol relaxes the muscles in the back of the throat. This makes it easier for the airway to become blocked in people with OSA. Sleeping pills have the same effect.
Losing Weight Can Help
Fact. You may be able to improve OSA by making some changes in your life. If you’re overweight, talk to your doctor about starting a weight loss program. Shedding even a small percentage of your body weight can improve your symptoms. If you smoke, ask your doctor about products that can help you quit.
Lying On Your Side Can Help
Fact. If you sleep on your back, gravity can pull isssues in your throat down, where they’re more likely to block your airway. Sleeping on your side instead may help open the throat. There are special pillows to help keep you on your side. Some people even use shirts with tennis balls sewn to the back.
