Sleep Apnea

People with sleep apnea stop breathing while they sleep, sometimes hundreds of times per night, and sometimes for a minute or longer. With normal breathing, air passes through the nose and past the flexible structures, such as the soft palate, uvula and tongue, in the back of the throat. When awake, the muscles hold this airway open. When asleep, these muscles relax, but the airway should remain open. In those who suffer from sleep apnea, the upper airway is blocked, causing oxygen levels to drop in both the brain and the blood.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

While sleeping, the airway in the throat may become partially or fully blocked, which may be caused by the following:

  • Large tongue and tonsils compared to the opening in the windpipe
  • Obesity
  • Cardiovascular problems
  • Throat and tongue muscles that are much more relaxed than normal
  • Aging, which may limit the brain's ability to keep throat muscles stiff during sleep

Diagnosis of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea may be diagnosed by a physical examination, review of family and medical history, and a sleep study. Patients may be referred to a sleep specialist to perform a sleep study test. A polysomnogram (PSG) is the most common sleep study test for diagnosing sleep apnea. A PSG records brain activity, eye movements, heart rate and blood pressure. It also records the amount of oxygen in the blood and air movement in the lungs during breathing and snoring.

Types of Sleep Apnea

There are three types of sleep apnea:

Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common form of sleep apnea. It occurs when the soft tissue at the back of the throat closes, blocking or obstructing the airway.

Central Sleep Apnea

The airway remains open in central sleep apnea, but the brain does not send signals to the muscles involved in breathing.

Mixed Sleep Apnea

Mixed sleep apnea combines aspects of the obstructive and central types of apnea. A common warning sign of sleep apnea is snoring, especially when it is interspersed with gasps or lack of breathing.

Depending on the severity of the sleep apnea, dentists with training in oral-appliance therapy can determine which appliance is best suited for a specific dental and medical condition. Working in conjunction with a physician, the dentist may participate in the patient's diagnosis, treatment and on-going care.

Complications from Sleep Apnea

The frequent drops in blood-oxygen levels and reduced sleep quality caused by sleep apnea can trigger the release of stress hormones that may cause serious complications. Left untreated, sleep apnea can cause headaches, daytime fatigue and memory problems. More serious complications may include:

  • High blood pressure
  • Heart arrhythmia
  • Heart attack
  • Stroke

Sleep apnea can be diagnosed and effectively treated. A doctor should be consulted for the best treatment option.

Additional Resources