vIf you sometimes wake up short of breath, with a headache, or with a dry mouth, you may be wondering why. These are common symptoms of sleep apnea, a condition that needs to be addressed. If you have concerns about yourself or a loved one, here’s some information about this condition and how a sleep wellness center can help.

A Guide to Understanding Sleep Apnea

What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes a person to stop and start breathing frequently while they're asleep. There are three types: obstructive, central, and complex. Obstructive is the most common. It occurs when the throat muscles relax and close the airway. Central sleep apnea occurs when the brain briefly stops telling your body to breathe. Complex occurs when a person has both central and obstructive sleep apnea.

What are the symptoms?

Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed because the person is asleep. While they’re sleeping, they may snore, struggle to breathe or take deep breaths, or wake up gasping for air. This can occur anywhere from five to 30 times each hour. The side effects of poor sleep include irritability, daytime fatigue, headaches, and dry mouth.

What are the causes?

Sleep apnea can affect anyone at any age. Obesity is one of the greatest contributing factors since excess fat can cause airways to close. Some people may also be born with narrower airways or wider necks, and family history can play a role. Men are more likely to develop sleep apnea. The risk also increases as you age.

Abusing alcohol or smoking causes inflammation in the upper airway and muscles to relax. This can lead to congestion or obstructive episodes.

Is there a treatment?

You’ll first want to get diagnosed at a sleep wellness center. There, doctors will monitor you while you sleep. They may also send you home with equipment that monitors your organs and vitals while you’re asleep.

The most common treatment the sleep wellness center will offer is a CPAP machine. This consists of a mask and device that pumps a continuous flow of air into the airway passages while you’re asleep. If the CPAP is uncomfortable, the sleep wellness center may recommend an oral appliance to keep the airway open or realign the jaw while you’re sleeping.

If you’re concerned about sleep apnea, the sleep wellness center at Island Hospital in Anacortes, WA, can help. This health care center has welcomed patients since 1962. It’s home to over 190 physicians and health care providers, and services include cancer care, emergency treatment, rehabilitation, and pediatrics. Call (360) 299-1300 to schedule an exam or learn more about them online.