Common Causes and Risk Factors of Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea, a serious sleep disorder, involves interrupted breathing during rest. Key symptoms include loud snoring, choking, dry mouth, sore throat in the morning, headaches, and daytime exhaustion. It predominantly affects older men—three times more than women—and those who are overweight.

Several factors increase the likelihood of developing sleep apnea:

1. Being Overweight

Excess body weight, especially around the neck, can constrict the airway, resulting in breathing difficulties at night. Fat accumulation under the chin may also compress airflow during sleep, worsening the condition.

2. Restricted Airway Openings

Allergies or nasal congestion can partially block nasal passages, increasing sleep apnea risk. Soft tissues in the throat and nose may collapse during sleep, obstructing airflow and causing breathing to pause intermittently.

3. Age and Gender

Men over 40 are significantly more prone to sleep apnea, partly because their throat muscles tend to contract more during sleep, narrowing airways. This condition, known as oropharyngeal collapse, involves the muscles squeezing the airway shut temporarily.

4. Smoking

Smoking elevates the risk by irritating and narrowing airways. Nicotine increases muscle tone, which can hinder normal breathing during sleep, although it does not directly cause sleep apnea. Nonetheless, smokers are more susceptible.

5. Alcohol and Sedative Use

Consuming alcohol or sedatives relaxes upper airway muscles, raising breathing difficulty during sleep. Regular use of these substances can contribute to sleep apnea and disrupt sleep quality.

Overall, sleep apnea can affect anyone but is especially common among older males, smokers, overweight individuals, and those with allergies or who consume sedatives. If you or a loved one experience loud snoring or breathing pauses, consult a healthcare professional for evaluation and advice.