The Dangers of Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is a disorder that can cause a variety of negative symptoms. Aptly named, it occurs when a person’s airway is obstructed during sleep, impeding the flow of oxygen to the brain and the rest of the body. Obstructive sleep apnea is almost three times as common in men than in women, and it is often caused by obesity. The soft tissue in an obese person’s mouth and throat is thicker than average, and when they go to sleep, the tissue relaxes, and this has the potential to obstruct their airway. This obstruction disrupts the person’s sleep and in some cases can awaken them suddenly in the middle of the night. This disruption can cause a variety of sleep-related symptoms, including insomnia, fatigue, snoring, and even nightmares. Additional symptoms can include mood swings, depression, and sudden weight gain. Memory loss and trouble focusing are also common complaints, and researchers have found this to be a major cause of concern, as it could mean bad news for the long-term health of the brain. Read more…