Why Stopping Breathing During Sleep is Dangerous

Do you wake up gasping for air? Do you feel exhausted in the morning as if you haven’t slept at all, while your loved ones complain about your loud snoring? These aren't just quirks of your body, they are likely symptoms of Sleep Apnea – a serious disorder affecting approximately 4% of the adult population.

What is Apnea and What Are Its Types?

Sleep apnea is a condition where a person's breathing is interrupted during sleep for periods lasting from 10 to 60 seconds (sometimes longer). The brain, sensing a lack of oxygen, forces the body to "micro-wake" to resume breathing. There can be hundreds of such episodes in a single night.

Medical practice identifies three types of apnea:

• Obstructive (Most Common): Occurs due to physical blockage of the airways (relaxation of throat muscles, enlarged tonsils, or excess weight).
• Central: The brain "forgets" to signal the muscles to breathe.
• Mixed: A combination of both factors.

You Shouldn’t Ignore

Consult the specialists at Doctor Sam if you notice:

• Loud, intermittent snoring;
• Observed episodes of complete breathing cessation (noticed by family members);
• Morning headaches and dry mouth;
• Excessive daytime sleepiness and inability to concentrate;
• High blood pressure that is difficult to manage.

Health Consequences: Why You Shouldn't Delay

Apnea is more than just poor sleep. It causes chronic hypoxia (oxygen deprivation), which affects all bodily systems:

• Heart and Vessels: The risk of heart attack, stroke, and arrhythmia increases significantly.
• Metabolism: Apnea triggers weight gain and the development of Type 2 diabetes.
• Safety: Due to chronic fatigue, the risk of motor vehicle accidents for patients with apnea is 3 to 5 times higher.

Diagnosis and Treatment at Doctor Sam

We don’t just treat symptoms. We eliminate the root cause. Diagnostics at our clinic are based on Polysomnography – the "gold standard" that monitors brain activity, oxygen levels, and breathing phases throughout the night.

Treatment Methods We Apply:

• CPAP Therapy: Using a specialized device that maintains constant pressure in the airways, preventing them from collapsing.
• Lifestyle Correction: Working with endocrinologists and nutritionists for weight reduction.
• Surgical Intervention: For cases involving anatomical abnormalities (adenoids, deviated septum).
• Supportive Therapy: Manual therapy and massage to reduce stress and improve overall body tone.

Do not let sleep disorders destroy your life. Quality sleep is the key to your safety and longevity.