Sleep apnea is more than just loud snoring—it’s a serious sleep disorder that disrupts breathing and impacts overall health. Common symptoms include gasping for air during sleep, chronic fatigue, and even morning headaches. At Houston Sleep Solutions, we understand the importance of uncovering the causes of sleep apnea to provide effective treatment and help you regain restorative sleep.
What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when your breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. There are three main types:
- Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common type, caused by a physical blockage of the airway.
- Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Results from the brain failing to signal the muscles to breathe adequately.
- Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome (also called treatment-emergent CSA): A combination of OSA and CSA.
When untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health issues, including high blood pressure, heart disease, and an increased risk of accidents due to daytime fatigue.
Common Causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA)
Anatomy & Airway Blockages
Certain anatomical features can make it harder to maintain an open airway during sleep. Enlarged tonsils, a thick neck, or a naturally narrow airway can all contribute to blockages that lead to OSA.
Obesity & Excess Weight
Excess weight is a significant risk factor for sleep apnea. Fat deposits around the neck and throat can narrow the airway, making it harder to breathe, especially when lying down.
Muscle Relaxation During Sleep
When you’re asleep, the muscles in your throat naturally relax. For individuals with OSA, these relaxed muscles can collapse, blocking the airflow and causing breathing interruptions.
Other Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea
Genetics
A family history of sleep apnea or inherited traits like a recessed jaw can increase your risk.
Age & Gender
Men are more likely than women to experience sleep apnea, particularly middle-aged and older adults, though the risk rises for post-menopausal women.
Lifestyle Factors
Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and sedatives can worsen sleep apnea by further relaxing the airway muscles or increasing inflammation.
Causes of Central Sleep Apnea (CSA)
Brain Signal Issues
With CSA, the brain fails to send the correct signals to the muscles that control breathing, interrupting the cycle.
Medical Conditions
CSA is often linked to underlying health conditions such as stroke, heart failure, or neurological illnesses like Parkinson’s disease.
Certain Medications
Opioids and other medications that suppress the central nervous system can disrupt the brain’s ability to regulate breathing during sleep.
How Houston Sleep Solutions Can Help
At Houston Sleep Solutions, we specialize in diagnosing and treating sleep apnea. Using cutting-edge technology, we evaluate your symptoms and recommend tailored solutions, including custom oral appliances. These devices help keep your airway open, offering an effective, non-invasive way to improve your sleep quality.
Our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way in managing your sleep apnea. Reach out today to explore your treatment options.
Don’t Settle for Restless Nights
Understanding why sleep apnea happens is the first step toward taking control of your health. Whether you’re managing anatomy-driven OSA or a health condition contributing to CSA, early intervention is key. Don’t wait—schedule a consultation with Houston Sleep Solutions and start your path to better sleep and overall well-being.
OUR LOCATIONS:
2443 S Galveston Ave
Pearland, Texas 77581
PEARLAND PHONE: 281-485-48291769 S. Friendswood Dr. Ste 107
Friendswood, TX 77546
FRIENDSWOOD PHONE: 281-482-1275
