Sleep apnea is a common but serious sleep disorder, so it's important to know something about it. This eMedTV resource provides information on sleep apnea, such as the different types, what causes this condition, and possible symptoms.
The three types of sleep apnea are: obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, and mixed sleep apnea. This eMedTV Web page outlines these types of sleep apnea and explains their symptoms, causes, and risk factors.
A blocked throat (due to relaxation of soft tissue in the throat) is the most common sleep apnea cause. This eMedTV page describes this cause in detail and also lists other possible causes, such as hypothyroidism.
Loud snoring, daytime sleepiness, and memory problems are common sleep apnea symptoms. This page of the eMedTV Web site focuses on the different symptoms of sleep apnea, including irritability, falling asleep while driving, and more.
A common sleep recording test, called a polysomnogram, is often used when making a sleep apnea diagnosis. This eMedTV Web page discusses this test and lists other factors that can help your doctor make a sleep apnea diagnosis.
Medication, surgery, lifestyle changes, and other options are all aspects of treatment for sleep apnea. This eMedTV resource discusses these options in detail and explains what can happen if the condition goes untreated.
Tracheostomy and tonsil/adenoid removal are different types of sleep apnea surgery. This eMedTV resource describes these and other surgical procedures in detail; the type of surgery recommended will depend on the cause of the sleep apnea.
As this eMedTV article points out, sleep apnea can have several effects on a person's life, such as causing tiredness during the day and difficulty concentrating. This Web page provides an overview of several possible effects of this disorder.
People living with sleep apnea often don't know that they have it. As this eMedTV article explains, however, sleep apnea puts people at risk for accidents and medical problems. This page explains how to get help if you are living with this condition.
A frequently asked question about sleep apnea is, "I was diagnosed with sleep apnea. What should I do?" This eMedTV page answers several basic sleep apnea questions about the effects, diagnosis, and treatment of this condition.