Sleep apnea is a serious sleeping condition in which breathing stops and starts. If left untreated, it can lead to health issues like asthma, diabetes, obesity, and even heart failure. Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the throat muscles relax intermittently, blocking the airway during sleep. There are several warning signs and treatment options of sleep apnea.

Let’s discuss about the warning signs and treatment options of sleep apnea, starting with the warning signs:

You should look out for these signs when:

• Your snores are audible and loud
• You stop breathing while asleep
• You wake up abruptly several times at night due to shortness of breath
• You wake up often to go to the bathroom
• You have a sore throat and dry mouth after waking up
• You wake up often with a headache
• You are experiencing insomnia or facing difficulty to stay asleep
• You feel extremely sleepy during the daytime or have hypothermia
• You are facing concentration, memory and attention problems
• You have mood swings and are irritable most of the time
• You are smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol
• You are experiencing sexual dysfunction or have decreased libido & interest towards sex

Continuing the discussion about the signs and treatment options of sleep apnea,   here are some treatment options:

• Lifestyle changes
  Modifications in lifestyle are essential to normalize breathing and the crucial first steps in the treatment of sleep apnea. Some of the changes include side sleeping, losing weight, and cessation of alcohol and smoking.
• Continuous Positive Airway Pressure or (CPAP) Therapy
  This treatment involves a mask. A continuous stream of positive air pressure helps in keeping the airway open through the mask. Some people have trouble using the CPAP, so they stop the treatment halfway before achieving a lasting benefit. But most masks are adjustable and can provide comfort.
• Surgery
  There are numerous surgical procedures for treating Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The surgical procedures are used to shrink or stiffen the obstructing tissue, treating the enlarged tonsils or removing the excess tissue. The extent and type of the surgery will determine if the procedure needs one to be admitted to the hospital or can be done in the doctor’s office itself.
• Mandibular Repositioning Device or MRD
  Individuals experiencing moderate or mild OSA can use this oral custom-made appliance for treatment. Through the mouthpiece, the jaw will be kept in a forward position for expanding the space at the back of the tongue during sleep. The process helps in keeping the upper airway open that helps prevent snoring.

To prevent severe consequences, one should know about the warning signs and treatment options of sleep apnea. Any person experiencing these signs should consult a doctor and know more about its symptoms.