Sleep Apnea ~by Dr. B.

Looking for a mask to conceal your identity the next time you enter a bank or do you have trouble sleeping?  Perhaps reading Legal Pub is the solution for folks who have a mild problem with falling asleep at night.  However, for those with sleep apnea, reading boring articles won't cure the condition whch results in restless sleep which manifests itself as daytime fatigue. Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that occurs when a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep. Just because someone snores, it does not mean they have sleep apnea. People with untreated sleep apnea stop breathing repeatedly during their sleep, sometimes hundreds of times. When a person stops breathing, the brain and the rest of the body may not get enough oxygen. A lack of oxygen can cause death to cellular tissue.  Extensive damage to cellular tissue can result in permanent impairment and even death.

There are two types of sleep apnea.  The first type of sleep apnea is known as Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA).  OSA is the most common form of apnea. This disorder is caused by a blockage of the airway, usually when the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapses during sleep.  The second type of sleep apnea is called
Central Sleep Apnea: Unlike OSA, the airway is not blocked, but the brain fails to signal the muscles to breathe due to instability in the respiratory control center. Both disorders are serious and should be treated accordingly. Oftentimes, the problem can be corrected by sleeping with a mask and breathing device known as CPAP.

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure uses mild air pressure to keep the airways open. A CPAP machine has three main parts:
   •A mask or other device that fits over the nose or the nose and mouth.
   •A tube that connects the mask to the machine.
   •A motor that blows air into the tube.

If you suspect that you have sleep apnea, please consult your physician.