Types of Sleep Apnea
- Posted on: Oct 23 2012
There are two basic types of sleep apnea. Both types are defined by pauses in breathing while you sleep. In some cases, a person may have a combination of both types, a condition called complex or mixed sleep apnea.
The two types of sleep apnea are:
Obstructive: This type of sleep apnea is the most common. The cause of it is airway blockage. Obstructive sleep apnea almost always causes snoring.
The airway becomes blocked when your throat muscles relax into the back of your throat. You cannot breathe, and your brain will wake you up just enough for you to open your airway. You are unlikely to notice the repeated, subtle awakenings from sleep, but you will feel extremely tired the next day.
Central: This type of sleep apnea is less common, but no less serious. Instead of airway blockage, the cause of this sleep disorder is related to your brain. Central sleep apnea occurs when your brain does not signal your muscles to breathe.
Both types of sleep apnea can contribute to serious health conditions, including depression, heart attack, stroke and high blood pressure. It also interferes with your ability to concentrate.
To learn more about treatment for obstructive sleep apnea in Virginia, please contact Galleria Dental Aesthetics to schedule a consultation.
Posted in: sleep apnea