Sleep
Apnea Treatment in Patna, Bihar
Sleep apnea, a disorder characterized by
recurrent pauses and resumptions of breathing during sleep, can result in
daytime fatigue and drowsiness. Prolonged cases may even contribute to
heart-related conditions. More prevalent in men and frequently observed in individuals
over 50, especially those who are overweight or obese, sleep apnea demands
attention in Patna.
Understanding
Sleep Apnea:
Sleep apnea manifests in two primary forms:
- Obstructive
Sleep Apnea (OSA): In OSA, the airway experiences partial or complete blockage
during sleep. This prompts strenuous efforts by chest muscles to unblock the
passage, often leading to gasping for air and disrupted sleep.
- Central Sleep
Apnea: This type involves the brain's temporary cessation of signals to the
breathing muscles, resulting in interrupted breathing. Unlike OSA, the airway
itself remains unobstructed.
Causes
of Sleep Apnea:
In OSA, the airway obstruction occurs due
to relaxation of throat tissues during sleep. Conversely, central sleep apnea
originates from the brain's failure to transmit breathing-related signals to
the muscles.
Symptoms
of Sleep Apnea:
Individuals with sleep apnea may not
personally notice their symptoms but could be informed by others. Common
indicators encompass:
- Snoring
- Frequent
nighttime awakenings
- Gasping for air
upon waking
- Daytime fatigue
and drowsiness
- Impaired
concentration
- Dry mouth upon
waking
- Morning
headaches
- Mood swings,
depression, and night sweats
When
to Seek Medical Help:
If persistent snoring or breathing
interruptions during sleep are evident, medical consultation is essential for
accurate diagnosis and suitable management.
Treatment
Options:
Lifestyle modifications can alleviate the
severity of sleep apnea:
- Weight
reduction, even by 10-15%, significantly reduces risks, particularly for
overweight individuals.
- Limiting alcohol
consumption and quitting smoking can benefit those with obstructive sleep
apnea.
- Adjusting sleep
position from back to side can prevent airway obstruction in specific cases.
For
more severe instances:
CPAP (Continuous
Positive Airway Pressure): This therapy employs a mask to deliver a continuous
stream of air, preventing airway blockage during sleep.
Surgical
intervention at Big Apollo Spectra Hospital, Patna, may involve widening the
airway by removing obstructive tissue.
In
Conclusion:
Sleep apnea, prevalent among individuals
over 50, necessitates timely attention due to its potential for serious
consequences. Identifying symptoms might be challenging for the affected
individual, underscoring the role of those around them in recognizing signs.
Seeking prompt medical assistance is crucial for effective management.