Snoring is a sound of varying intensity resulting from the vibration of pharynx tissues, the soft palate, and the uvula during unconscious breathing. Contrary to what is observed during the day, these tissues lose their tone during sleep and its horizontal position during rest causes gravity to push the tongue and other tissues towards the bottom of the oral cavity. Experts consider Sleep Apnea in Allentown PA when there is an interruption of breathing.
Defining sleep apnea
According to its definition, obstructive sleep apnea is reported when there is a 10-second respiration interruption. This is accompanied by a drop in the body’s blood oxygen level. Experts talk about central apnea when they notice respiratory arrest.
Diagnosing the issue
There are several questionnaires and clinical indices that may lead to a diagnosis of sleep apnea in a person. However, and currently, only polysomnography tests (sleep tests) are recognized to diagnose this condition. To determine the severity of the disease, the average respiratory arrest is compiled per hour.
It is normal to observe up to 5 respiratory arrests per hour, a mild case of sleep apnea is characterized by an average stopping of between 5 and 15 stops, a moderate case of between 15 and 30 and experts will see evidence of more than 30 stops an hour in severe cases.
The consequences of sleep apnea
According to data published in 2012, 3% of the population over 18 years of age are diagnosed with Sleep Apnea in Allentown PA. In the case of people over 45, this proportion increases to 9%. According to the same survey, among the undetected adult population, 29% had symptoms and risk factors for developing sleep apnea disorders.
Men would be affected more than women, at a ratio of about 3:1. Some of the diseases that are aggravated or triggered by sleep apnea are hypertension, type 2 diabetes, obesity, depression, loss of libido, concentration disorders and memory loss. Some recent articles even link the presence of sleep apnea with Alzheimer’s disease.
In summary, sleep apnea significantly decreases the life expectancy and quality of life of each patient. However, because the condition develops slowly, the patient will very rarely realize the extent of his problem. Visit us for more details.