Causes of Sleep Apnea

A sufferer of sleep apnea experiences breathing interruptions while sleeping, sometimes leading to pauses in breathing for up to two or three minutes repeatedly throughout the night. Medical and dental professionals agree that the primary sleep apnea cause is the relaxation of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat while sleeping, which results in a partial or complete restriction of the airway.

Although the medical definition of sleep apnea causes is fairly consistent for all sufferers, there are a variety of risk factors that can cause certain individuals to become more susceptible to the disorder. The impacts of these factors can be far reaching.

Those who have any of the following characteristics may be more prone to sleep apnea causes:

  • Obese or overweight individuals will usually have extra throat tissue that blocks the airway, making breathing more difficult. It’s estimated that up to 70% of sleep apnea sufferers are overweight. People with larger frames are also more susceptible, even if their weight is proportionate to their height.
  • Many doctors and dentists believe that acid reflux disease (gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD), is among the sleep apnea causes. The stomach acid can cause scar tissue to build up in the back of the throat, restricting the airway.
  • If you suffer from asthma and allergies, you may be more prone to sleep apnea. These conditions can cause spasms in the throat muscles, congestion, and swelling, all of which can obstruct breathing.
  • Another sleep apnea cause may be the shape of your head and throat. If your windpipe is naturally small or your head and neck are bonier than normal, you run a greater risk of developing the sleep disorder.
  • If your uvula, throat muscles, and other soft tissues become overly relaxed, they may restrict your airway.
  • Larger tonsils and adenoids can result in the development of sleep apnea.
  • Older individuals are more prone to sleep apnea causes, as signals from the brain to the respiratory system begin to deteriorate.

There can be one or many factors which lead to snoring and sleep apnea. Each person is an individual and should be treated as such. When meeting with a qualified sleep professional, speak to them candidly about your lifestyle and medical history. This will help them properly assess which sleep apnea treatment is right for you. If you’ve had a previous evaluation by a doctor, we offer second opinions at no cost to you.

Dr. Mark Kleive is a well-educated authority in sleep apnea causes and treatments. Find out how he can help you get a healthier, more restful night’s sleep by contacting our office today at (828)669-2974.