Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Apnea
This article contains several questions and answers about sleep apnea.
(For more detailed information on this condition, see the full eMedTV article titled Sleep Apnea.)
Sleep apnea is a common breathing disorder in which your breathing periodically stops or gets very shallow for brief periods while you sleep.
What Does the Word "Apnea" Mean?
Apnea is a Greek word meaning "want of breath."
How Will My Doctor Know If I Have Sleep Apnea?
Your doctor will do a physical exam, ask you and your family about your sleep habits, and recommend a number of tests, including sleep recordings, to diagnose sleep apnea.
In Sleep Apnea, How Does Breathing Restart After Stopping During Sleep?
Your brain tells your throat and mouth muscles to open your airway. This will send air to your lungs. Breathing is often started with a loud snort or choking sound.
I Am Using Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) at Night and I Don't Like It. Can I Stop Wearing It?
It is important to continue to use CPAP. If you have problems with CPAP, talk to your sleep medicine specialist about making adjustments. CPAP keeps your airway open during sleep so that air can get into your lungs. The use of CPAP decreases
sleep apnea symptoms and other medical problems associated with this condition.
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print