What Causes Sleep Apnea?

Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Causes

Do you wake up gasping for air at night? Or has your sleeping partner noticed you struggling to breathe while sleeping? Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that disrupts breathing and affects sleep quality. If untreated, it can lead to serious health complications, including heart disease and high blood pressure. Keep reading to learn about the causes and treatment options for sleep apnea.

Types of Sleep Apnea & Their Causes

There are two primary types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). A third type, complex sleep apnea, is a combination of both.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)

OSA occurs when the airway is blocked due to relaxed throat muscles or excess tissue. It is the most common form of sleep apnea, accounting for 90% of adult cases. Some of the main causes and risk factors include:

• Obesity – Over 50% of individuals with OSA are overweight or obese.
• Thick Neck or Narrow Airway – A smaller airway increases breathing difficulty.
• Gender & Age – Men are 2-3 times more likely to develop OSA than women, though post-menopausal women are at increased risk.
• Genetics & Family History – A family history of sleep apnea increases your risk.
• Smoking & Alcohol Use – These can cause airway inflammation and muscle relaxation, worsening apnea.
• Nasal Congestion & Deviated Septum – Blocked nasal passages make breathing more difficult.
• Medical Conditions – Heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure can increase the likelihood of OSA.

Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)

‍Unlike OSA, CSA is caused by the brain failing to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. This leads to breathing pauses and sudden gasping for air. CSA can be linked to:

• Heart disorders – Conditions such as heart failure can worsen CSA.
• Narcotic pain medications – Opioids, including fentanyl and hydrocodone, can suppress respiratory function.
• Neurological disorders – Strokes and other brain conditions can interfere with the brain’s ability to regulate breathing.

Treatment Options for Sleep Apnea

‍Managing sleep apnea effectively requires the right treatment based on its severity and type.

‍Obstructive Sleep Apnea Treatments:

• Lifestyle Changes – Weight loss, smoking cessation, and sleeping position adjustments.
• CPAP Therapy – A Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine keeps airways open during sleep.
• Oral Appliances – Devices designed to keep the throat open.
• Surgical Interventions – Options include Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) to remove excess throat tissue, radiofrequency ablation, jaw repositioning surgery, or tracheostomy for severe cases.

Central Sleep Apnea Treatments:

• Addressing Underlying Medical Conditions – Managing heart failure or neurological disorders can improve CSA.
• Supplemental Oxygen Therapy – Oxygen support at night helps regulate breathing.
• Medication Adjustments – Reducing opioid use or other medications that impact breathing.

Take Control of Your Sleep Health

‍Sleep apnea can be disruptive, but with the right treatment, you can regain restful sleep and improve your overall health. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with BASS Medical Group’s sleep medicine specialists today. Our expert team can help diagnose and manage your condition for better sleep and long-term health.