Laurie Carmichael

According to the literature , there has been a rise in “ sleep divorce ” — a term coined to apply when bedpartners choose other locations to sleep . The culprit — snoring ! “ Good grief ! It sounds like a freight train rumbling through the bedroom .” “ All night long , a 747 airplane lands and takes off next to my head ,” report weary bedpartners .

Although irritating , snoring can be a symptom of a serious health problem : obstructive sleep apnea . As the name suggests , breathing is disrupted during deep sleep phases . The muscles at the back of the throat relax , causing the airway to close or narrow . The brain registers a lack of oxygen , triggering the snorer to wake . “ Apneic ” episodes can last up to ten seconds and occur thirty times per hour in severe cases , making it difficult for the sleeper to reach deep , rejuvenating sleep phases .

Loud snoring is the most common symptom , but sufferers may experience morning headaches , daytime sleepiness , irritability , inattentiveness , depression , and marital problems . If left untreated , OSA may lead to serious health problems : high blood pressure , cardiovascular problems ( irregular heart rhythm , heart attack , sudden cardiac death ), stroke , and Alzheimer ’ s disease . Poor sleep quality can also lead to workplace and motor vehicle accidents because of decreased concentration and forgetfulness .

Factors that increase the risk of developing OSA include heart failure and diabetes , advanced age , biological sex , and anatomical structures of the neck . Men have a two- to three-times greater risk for OSA than women . Individuals with short , thick

necks , fatty deposits around the neck , or tonsil and / or adenoid problems are also at risk .

The first suggestion of OSA may come from your bed partner reporting increased snoring and apneic spells . Your health-care professional will perform a physical examination , including the throat and neck . A sleep study called a polysomnogram ( SnoreSat ) may be ordered , which can be done at a hospital or sleep centre .

A common treatment for OSA is the use of a continuous positive airway pressure ( CPAP ) device at bedtime . A steady flow of pressurized air into your nose and mouth via a face or nasal mask keeps your airway open , allowing for improved sleep quality .

Your health-care professional may suggest lifestyle changes : weight loss , smoking cessation , and limiting caffeine , alcohol , and sedatives at bedtime .

For further information on sleep apnea , check out myhealth . alberta . ca or speak with your health-care professional .

Laurie Carmichael is a retired nurse and author of A Complicated Goodbye and its sequel Hiding Amongst the Clouds . This article originally appeared in North Okotoks Living Magazine .

Normal Airway Obstructed Airway

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