Breathing Disorders That Occur During Sleep

Breathing Disorders That Occur During Sleep

Sleep disturbances (Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome/OSAS) are characterized by partial or total obstruction of the upper airway leading to repeated periods of breathing apnea (apnea) during sleep or lack of breath (hypopnea) for at least 10 seconds during sleep. This condition causes the brain and other body parts to not get enough oxygen. Respiratory disorders can occur due to obstruction or blockage of the airways in the pharyngeal/throat area due to pushing the tongue and palate/hard part of the roof of the mouth back, which can cause occlusion of the nasopharynx or blockage in the throat and oral cavity, which causes cessation of air flow, even though breathing is still in progress during sleep.

Causes of breathing problems during sleep, namely:

1. Obesity or being overweight greatly increases the risk of sleep disorders
2. Anatomical abnormalities of the upper respiratory tract: inflammation of the tonsils and adenoids; polyps; nasal allergies (inhaling dust, animal dander, or pollen); nasal abnormalities; swelling that occurs in the bony grooves found on the inside of the nose.
3. The circumference of the neck (larger necks may have narrower airways).
4. Hormones.
5. Congenital abnormalities or abnormalities acquired since birth.
6. Alcohol consumption.

Symptoms of respiratory distress during sleep, namely, excessive sleepiness during the day, snoring, and a period of respiratory arrest that may end with body movement or awakening. A small percentage of children exhibit snoring in the form of snorting or exhalation and wheezing rather than classic snoring. Children often have complaints of hyperactivity and difficulty breathing during sleep.

Symptoms of respiratory disorders during sleep, if ignored, can cause poor performance at work, decreased short-term memory, work and motor vehicle accidents, complications in the heart and blood vessels such as hypertension (high blood pressure), heart health disorders, respiratory failure, and even death. In children, failure to thrive and hyperactivity may occur.

Prevention and treatment of respiratory disorders during sleep, namely by lifestyle modification by losing weight; position therapy; avoiding the consumption of alcoholic beverages; the use of an oral appliance (OA), namely therapy to maintain the patient's jaw so that it is in a forward position and opens the airway; maintaining the tongue so that it does not fall backwards and open the airway; drugs; surgery.

That's what you need to know about breathing problems during sleep. If you or someone close to you encounters this, immediately make an appointment with an ENT-KL specialist at Hermina Arcamanik Hospital.