What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea happens when breathing stops and starts during sleep, resulting in disrupted sleep and potentially dangerous health consequences. Common symptoms include loud snoring, choking or gasping during sleep, restless tossing and turning, and excessive daytime sleepiness. When these symptoms persist and affect daily life, visit an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist.

At Northside ENT in Carmel, IN, our doctors diagnose and treat sleep apnea by evaluating the airway, conducting sleep studies, and providing treatment options such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machines, oral appliances, or surgical interventions. Prompt evaluation and management by an ENT can help improve sleep quality and overall health.

What Causes Sleep Apnea? 

Sleep apnea is a condition that can disrupt your restful slumber, but have you ever wondered what causes it? Let's dive into the details! Sleep apnea occurs when the muscles in the back of your throat fail to keep your airway open during sleep, leading to breathing interruptions. There are three types of sleep apnea: obstructive, central, and complex.

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the most common type and is usually caused by a blockage in the airway, often due to relaxed throat muscles or excess tissue in the throat. Central sleep apnea (CSA) results from a failure of the brain to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Complex sleep apnea, also known as treatment-emergent central sleep apnea (TECSA), emerges from both obstructive and central sleep apnea. Risk factors for sleep apnea include obesity, family history, smoking, alcohol or sedative use, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.

Identifying the root cause of sleep apnea is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment approach and finding beneficial solutions for better sleep and improved overall health. Don't let sleep apnea, hold you back from a good night's rest - take charge of your health and consult with a healthcare professional to uncover the underlying causes and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Your First Visit: What to Expect

During your initial consultation for sleep apnea, expect a comprehensive evaluation to understand your symptoms and medical history. Our healthcare provider at Northside ENT will ask about your sleep patterns, snoring, breathing difficulties, and daytime fatigue.

They'll conduct a physical examination, including checking your throat, mouth, and neck for abnormalities. We may also request you undergo a sleep study to monitor your sleep overnight. Be prepared to discuss any previous medical conditions or treatments you have received. The healthcare provider will use this information to develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your needs, ensuring you receive the best care.

Please explore our website for more information about the conditions we treat and the services provided. If you have questions or concerns about sleep apnea in Carmel, IN, and want to schedule an appointment with our providers at Northside ENT, call (317) 844-5656.