Sleep apnea is a disorder that occurs when a person’s breathing is interrupted during sleep. These interruptions, or apneas, can last for several seconds or even minutes and can occur multiple times throughout the night. Sleep apnea can have a significant impact on a person’s health and quality of life.
Causes of Sleep Apnea:
There are several factors that can contribute to sleep apnea, including obesity, smoking, alcohol and drug use, and certain medications. It is also more common in people with a family history of the disorder, as well as in those with certain anatomical features, such as a large tongue or tonsils.
Kapha Dosha:
Sleep apnea is considered a Kapha dosha disorder in Ayurveda. Kapha is one of the three doshas, or energies, that govern the body and mind. When Kapha dosha is imbalanced, it can lead to excess mucus production, which can contribute to the obstruction of the airways during sleep.
The danger of Sleep Apnea Without Treatment: If left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea:
The most common symptoms of sleep apnea include:
- Loud snoring
- Gasping or choking during sleep
- Daytime sleepiness
- Morning headaches
- Memory and concentration problems
- Irritability or mood changes
- Decreased sex drive
- Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
Best 10 Precautions for Sleep Apnea:
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Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a common risk factor for sleep apnea, so maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce symptoms.
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Avoid alcohol and sedatives: These substances can relax the muscles in the airway, making it more likely for apneas to occur.
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Quit smoking: Smoking can irritate the airway and contribute to inflammation, making sleep apnea worse.
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Use a humidifier: Adding moisture to the air can help reduce congestion and make breathing easier.
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Sleep on your side: Sleeping on your back can increase the likelihood of apneas occurring, so sleeping on your side can help alleviate symptoms.
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Elevate your head: Sleeping with your head elevated can help reduce congestion and make breathing easier.
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Practice good sleep hygiene: Establishing a regular sleep schedule and practicing good sleep habits can help improve sleep quality.
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Use a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine: A CPAP machine delivers a steady stream of air pressure to keep the airway open during sleep.
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Consider positional therapy: Devices such as positional pillows or wearable devices can help keep you in a position that reduces apneas.
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Seek medical attention: If you suspect you have sleep apnea, it is important to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Facts of WHO on Sleep Apnea:
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), sleep apnea affects an estimated 100 million people worldwide and is a significant contributor to the global disease burden. WHO recommends early diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea to reduce the risk of complications, and emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes, such as weight loss and smoking cessation, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
