Causes for Sleep Disordered Breathing

Sleep apnea, an interruption in the normal rhythm of breathing during sleep, falls under two broad categories: central sleep apnea and obstructive sleep apnea. The former is not seen quite so much as the latter and its causes are neurological, rather than the result of abnormal physiology, obesity or the other factors that contribute to obstructive sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea occurs when the affected person’s brain fails to send the signals to the respiratory system that queue them to breathe and, thus, there is a momentary interruption in breathing during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea is far more common.

While sleep is the way in which our bodies repair themselves and, of course, while it provides an opportunity for our brains to get rejuvenating rest, it is a complex process, nonetheless. When we fall asleep, our entire bodies relax. This includes the soft tissue found at the back of our throats, including the soft palate and the tongue. Additionally, some people have excess tissue that blocks their airways. Oftentimes, this is removed during childhood; tonsillectomies and adenoid removals, for example, are very common surgeries for children that can help to eliminate some of this tissue.

Some individuals have other issues with their airways, including nasal polyps and deformities to the very structure of the regions at the back of their throats. These issues can oftentimes be corrected with surgical interventions, as well. However, not all surgeries will provide complete relief. There is risk involved in any invasive procedure, as well, and the surgeries that affect this area can be uncomfortable and can entail a substantial recovery time for the patient. The surgery usually recommended in these cases is called a uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, which involves removing some of the tissue at the back of the throat and which may affect the uvula, the tonsils and other areas of the soft palate.

The main purpose of these surgeries is to remove that tissue that collapses during sleep and which then obstructs the airway. The alternatives to the surgical procedures are designed to produce the same results without the discomfort and risk associated with surgery. One of the most commonly-used devices that provides relief is a Nasal Continuous Positive Air Pressure (nCPAP) machine. These devices are generally considered to be the most effective treatment for sleep apnea. However, these devices are also cumbersome and are not tolerated well by all patients.

You may be suffering from sleep apnea if you’re overweight. Fat is stored in the neck and throat and, combined with the natural tendency of these tissues to sag and obstruct the airway during sleep, this can result in a serious case of sleep apnea. Your doctor may well recommend that, first and foremost, you shed a few pounds as the first line of treatment for this condition. Your sleep physician may recommend that you visit a dentist, as well, to get an appliance fitted. If you suffer from this condition yourself or have a loved one who does, help is available.

To learn more about Sleep Apnea treatments and to find out if they are right for you, contact Smile Studio LA at 818-788-1352 today for a free consultation!