10121N Nevada St. #202 Spokane, WA 99218
Sleep Apnea in Spokane WA - Risk factors you need to know
Sleep apnea is a serious disorder that may result in dangerous health conditions if not treated. The more you know about this disorder, the better you can work hand in hand with your dental or medical provider to put an end to sleepless nights. Should you suspect you or a loved one suffers from sleep apnea in Spokane, WA, don’t wait to schedule a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Brossoit. There are three different types of sleep apnea. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea, in which the patient stops breathing during sleep due to the throat muscles relaxing and blocking off the airway.
Understanding the risk factors associated with obstructive sleep apnea allows you to take control of your own health. These include:
- Age- While sleep apnea may occur in a patient of any age, the instance of the disorder occurs two to three times more often in patients over the age of 65.
- Gender- Sleep apnea may occur in women, particularly those past menopause; but the disorder strikes men twice as often.
- Weight- Although individuals who are thin may develop sleep apnea, patients who carry excess weight are at greater risk of fat deposits obstructing the airway when lying down.
- Neck circumference- A neck circumference of greater than 17 inches has been associated with the increased risk of narrowing the airway, which results in sleep apnea.
- Narrow airway- A narrow airway may also be inherited, or caused due to enlarged tonsils or adenoids.
- Hypertension- Hypertension (high blood pressure) has been associated with sleep apnea.
- Smoking- It has been shown that smokers are three times more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea, as this habit may increase the amount of fluid retention and inflammation in the airway.
- Use of sedatives or alcohol- Substances which relax muscles may affect the muscles in the throat, causing obstruction.
- Family history- There is a higher likelihood of developing sleep apnea if others in your family have the disorder.
- Prolonged sitting- Sitting for long periods during the day may cause fluids to build up. When you lie down to sleep, this fluid may shift and cause a narrowing of the airway.
Some of the risk factors associated with sleep apnea in Spokane, WA, cannot be changed. However, making lifestyle changes that promote better overall health, such as quitting smoking or losing excess weight, may significantly improve sleep patterns.
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