Arbor Health | Arbor Health and Life | Winter 2021

MYARBORHEALTH.ORG 4 Sometimes snoring is more than just snoring. Sometimes it’s a sign of sleep apnea, a potentially dangerous condi- tion that, among other things, can be hard on your heart. The most common type of sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). It causes someone to stop breathing as much as 30 times or more during sleep. These pauses momen- tarily wake a person up, although they may not remember being awake. Breathing pauses also cause oxygen levels to go up and down, which puts a big strain on the heart. OSA also can increase the risk of heart failure, high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation (an irregular heartbeat), type 2 diabetes and stroke. What causes OSA? OSA is caused by the collapse of the airway in the back of the nose, mouth and throat during sleep. The vibra- tion of the relaxed airway triggers the snoring. When the airway closes completely, it cuts off oxygen to the lungs. That’s what wakes someone up, gasping for air: Oxygen can’t get to the lungs and brain, and the body becomes oxygen-deprived. Could I have OSA? Loud snoring is the most obvious hall- mark of OSA. But if you live alone, you may not have had anyone tell you that you snore. Other signs and symptoms you might have OSA include: ● You stop breathing while you’re sleeping. ● You wake up from sleep gasping or choking. ● You wake up frequently. ● You have headaches in the morning. ● You feel sleepy or tired during the day or have problems concentrating. How is OSA treated? Your first step is to talk with your doctor if you suspect you may have OSA. The condition can be diagnosed by Jakdej Nikomborirak, MD Jennifer Montoure, ARNP, FNP-C Don’t ignore that snore It may be hurting your heart a sleep study or with an at-home sleep apnea test. OSA can be treated with a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) device, which involves wearing a mask while sleeping that keeps air pressure flowing in your airways so they don’t close down. It’s important to not shrug off OSA as just a snoring problem. Treatment is vital to your heart—and your overall good health. Sources: American Academy of Sleep Medicine; American Heart Association Need a sleep study? Ask your doctor for a referral to the Arbor Health Sleep Center—accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and ranked as a Center of Excellence. Our two sleep medicine specialists are here for you.