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Sleep Apnea
Moderate
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops or becomes very shallow during sleep. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked or narrowed during sleep. Another form, central sleep apnea, occurs when the brain does not send appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing. Symptoms may include loud snoring, pauses in breathing, daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches.
Body System
Respiratory System
When to Seek Medical Attention
Sleep apnea generally requires medical evaluation but is not usually an emergency. Seek prompt assessment for severe daytime sleepiness causing safety problems, worsening breathing symptoms, chest pain, fainting, significant heart rhythm symptoms, or other concerning changes.
Symptoms
3
Causes
4
Treatments
5
Diet
4
Overview
Sleep apnea is a disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops or becomes very shallow during sleep. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the upper airway becomes blocked or narrowed during sleep. Another form, central sleep apnea, occurs when the brain does not send appropriate signals to the muscles that control breathing. Symptoms may include loud snoring, pauses in breathing, daytime sleepiness, and morning headaches.
Symptoms 3
Cold Sweats
Excessive Sleepiness
Swollen Ankles
Causes 4
Obstructive sleep apnea occurs when the muscles and tissues of the upper airway relax during sleep and block airflow. Enlarged tonsils or other anatomical features can contribute. Central sleep apnea results from problems with the brain signals that control breathing and may occur with certain medical conditions or medicines. Some people have a combination of obstructive and central sleep apnea.
Alcohol
Infection
Smoking
Stress
Risk Factors
Risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea include excess body weight, a larger neck circumference, certain facial or airway structures, older age, and a family history of the disorder. Alcohol and sedating medicines can worsen airway obstruction during sleep. Smoking may also increase risk. Central sleep apnea is associated with certain heart, brain, and medical conditions and with some medicines.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Sleep apnea is evaluated using symptoms, sleep history, and information from a sleep partner when available. A sleep study can monitor breathing, oxygen levels, heart rate, and other body functions during sleep. Testing may be performed in a sleep center or, for some people, at home. The results help determine whether apnea is present and what type and severity of disorder exists.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of obstructive sleep apnea or lessen its severity
Avoiding alcohol and sedating medicines before sleep, when medically appropriate, can also help
Sleeping on the side may reduce airway obstruction in some people
Avoiding tobacco and treating nasal or other airway problems can support healthy breathing during sleep
People with symptoms should seek medical evaluation
Prevention Guidance
Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of obstructive sleep apnea or lessen its severity. Avoiding alcohol and sedating medicines before sleep, when medically appropriate, can also help. Sleeping on the side may reduce airway obstruction in some people. Avoiding tobacco and treating nasal or other airway problems can support healthy breathing during sleep. People with symptoms should seek medical evaluation.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 4
Recommended Foods
Bananas
Gentle on the stomach lining.
Oatmeal
Easy to digest and soothing.
Boiled Vegetables
Reduce stomach irritation.
Low Fat Yogurt
May support digestive health.
Foods to Avoid
Spicy Foods
May worsen ulcer symptoms.
Alcohol
Can irritate the stomach lining.
Excess Coffee
May increase stomach acid.
Fried Foods
Can aggravate symptoms.
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
A peptic ulcer is an open sore in the stomach or upper small intestine lining.
Most ulcers are caused by H. pylori infection or long-term NSAID use.
Burning stomach pain, bloating, nausea, and indigestion are common symptoms.
Yes, most ulcers heal with proper treatment and lifestyle changes.
Seek medical attention if symptoms are severe or bleeding occurs.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.