Obstructive sleep apnea causes, symptoms, and how to stop interruptions in breathing during sleep

Health risks of sleep apnea: Repeated fluctuations in heart rate due to episodes of apnea (stoppage of breath) lead to excessive stress on the heart and the development of plaques in the vessels supplying the heart and the brain (Image: Canva)

If you often wake up multiple times throughout the night, gasping for air, only to feel exhausted and drowsy throughout the day, you might be experiencing Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). The condition causes repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, leaving you fatigued and tired.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea is a lifestyle disorder that is marked by obstruction of breathing while a person is asleep, leading to episodes of waking up multiple times during the night (15-200 times per hour). This leads to repeated fluctuation in the heart rate and blood pressure as the body gasps for air repeatedly.

Speaking about the risks around OSA, Dr Darshil Vaishnav, Consultant Laryngologist and ENT Surgeon, Bhailal Amin General Hospital, Vadodara, says “The risks include obesity, diabetes mellitus, hypertension and cardiovascular diseases. People with a thick neck and a large belly are at great risk of developing this condition. Inefficient sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness are some features.”

Patients dealing with this condition usually complain about an urge to nap in situations like waiting for a meeting, while travelling as a passenger, or while watching TV. “In worst cases, people with this condition who drive for long distances are prone to accidents owing to this health condition,” says Dr Vaishnav says. He shares some common symptoms and suggests important dos and don’ts for managing the condition.

Symptoms of OSA:

Repeated fluctuations in heart rate due to episodes of apnea (stoppage of breath) lead to excessive stress on the heart and the development of plaques in the vessels supplying the heart and the brain. This increases the risk of developing heart failure and stroke. These matters are further complicated by Obesity and Insulin resistance (which are causes as well as complications of OSA).

Dos and don’ts for managing Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Dos:

Prioritise weight loss: Excess weight, especially around the neck, increases airway obstruction during sleep. Losing weight can significantly improve OSA symptoms and overall health.

Follow a balanced diet: A balanced diet aids weight management and reduces inflammation. Focus on foods rich in antioxidants and fiber while avoiding high-calorie, high-fat items.

Exercise everyday: Regular exercise supports weight loss and cardiovascular health, helping to reduce airway obstruction and improve sleep quality.

Monitor your sleep pattern: Regular sleep studies and tracking help evaluate treatment effectiveness and identify worsening symptoms, allowing timely adjustments to your management plan.

Consult a multidisciplinary team: Managing OSA effectively often requires a team, including specialists like laryngologists, pulmonologists, and cardiologists. This approach addresses all aspects of the condition, from anatomical issues to associated health problems.

Don’ts:

Don’t ignore symptoms: Ignoring symptoms like daytime drowsiness and loud snoring can lead to severe health issues, including cardiovascular problems. Early intervention is key.

Don’t rely solely on CPAP: While CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) helps keep the airway open, it’s not a cure-all. Combine it with lifestyle changes like weight loss for better results.

Don’t skip medical check-up: Regular check-ups are crucial for adjusting treatments and monitoring progress. Missing appointments can lead to worsening symptoms and complications.