What Is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea occurs when a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. The main types include:
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Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA): The most common form, occurring when throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep.
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Central Sleep Apnea (CSA): Occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.
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Complex Sleep Apnea Syndrome: A combination of OSA and CSA.
Without proper treatment, sleep apnea can severely impact daily function, mental health, and long-term cardiovascular health.
Prevalence in the Philippines
While global estimates suggest that approximately 936 million adults may have obstructive sleep apnea (NIH), local data in the Philippines is limited but alarming. Among high-risk groups like individuals with type 2 diabetes, obesity, or hypertension, the likelihood of sleep apnea is significantly higher.
A study published in Acta Medica Philippina revealed that more than half of diabetic patients are at risk for OSA. Unfortunately, due to low awareness and limited access to sleep diagnostic facilities, many Filipinos remain undiagnosed.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
Recognizing the symptoms of sleep apnea is essential for seeking timely treatment. Symptoms may include:
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Loud, persistent snoring
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Episodes of stopped breathing during sleep (observed by another person)
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Gasping for air during sleep
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Morning headaches
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Dry mouth or sore throat upon waking
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Excessive daytime sleepiness
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Difficulty concentrating
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Mood swings, irritability, or depression
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Frequent nighttime urination
It's important to note that not all people who snore have sleep apnea, but loud snoring paired with daytime fatigue strongly suggests a need for evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of developing sleep apnea:
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Obesity: Excess weight, especially around the neck, can obstruct the airway.
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Thicker Neck Circumference: May indicate narrower airways.
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Aging: Sleep apnea becomes more common with age.
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Family History: Genetics can increase susceptibility.
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Use of Alcohol, Sedatives, or Tranquilizers: These relax the throat muscles excessively.
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Smoking: Increases inflammation and fluid retention in the upper airway.
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Nasal Congestion: Breathing difficulties due to allergies or sinus problems.
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Medical Conditions: Conditions like congestive heart failure, type 2 diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome increase risk.
Men are generally at higher risk, but post-menopausal women also face increased vulnerability.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves:
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Polysomnography (Sleep Study): Conducted overnight at a sleep clinic, monitoring brain activity, eye movement, heart rate, blood oxygen levels, airflow, and breathing patterns.
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Home Sleep Apnea Testing: For simpler cases, portable monitors assess heart rate, airflow, breathing patterns, and blood oxygen levels at home.
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent the serious health consequences associated with untreated sleep apnea.
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying causes:
Lifestyle Modifications:
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Weight Loss: Reducing excess weight can sometimes eliminate sleep apnea entirely.
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Regular Exercise: Improves respiratory strength and overall health.
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Avoid Alcohol and Sedatives: These relax muscles that maintain airway openness.
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Sleep Positioning: Sleeping on the side instead of the back helps keep the airway open.
Medical Treatments:
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Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP): A device that delivers a constant stream of air to keep airways open during sleep.
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BiPAP (Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure): An alternative for those who find CPAP difficult.
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Oral Appliances: Mouthpieces designed to keep the throat open by repositioning the jaw.
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Surgery: Procedures like uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP) or maxillomandibular advancement (MMA) can help severe cases.
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Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation: A newer option where a device stimulates muscles to keep the airway open.
Treatment adherence, especially with CPAP, is essential to managing symptoms and avoiding complications.
Complications of Untreated Sleep Apnea
Without treatment, sleep apnea can lead to:
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High Blood Pressure: Oxygen deprivation causes blood pressure spikes.
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Heart Disease: Increased risk of heart attacks, heart failure, and strokes.
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Type 2 Diabetes: Sleep apnea worsens insulin resistance.
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Liver Problems: Elevated liver enzyme levels and scarring.
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Daytime Fatigue: Raising the risk of accidents at work or while driving.
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Mood Disorders: Higher likelihood of depression and anxiety.
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Cognitive Impairment: Memory loss and poor concentration.
Studies, such as those cited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, show that treating sleep apnea reduces the risk of many of these complications dramatically.
Prevention and Long-Term Management
Even if you are at risk, preventive measures can make a significant difference:
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Maintain a healthy weight
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Exercise regularly
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Quit smoking
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Limit alcohol consumption
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Manage allergies and nasal congestion
Long-term, consistent treatment and healthy living strategies can restore quality of life and improve overall health.
Accessing Sleep Apnea Care in the Philippines
Several major hospitals, including the Philippine General Hospital, Makati Medical Center, and St. Luke’s Medical Center, offer sleep studies and management services.
For those who prefer telehealth consultations or need help starting their healthcare journey, platforms like andyou.ph provide accessible medical advice and sleep health resources tailored to Filipino needs.
Remember, early diagnosis and consistent treatment are vital to avoiding life-threatening complications.
Living Better, Sleeping Healthier
Sleep apnea can have a profound impact on daily life, but it’s a highly manageable condition with the right support. Whether it’s through lifestyle changes, CPAP therapy, or surgery, countless people regain restful sleep and healthier lives every year.
If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, don’t delay seeking help. By acting today, you invest in your energy, heart health, mental clarity, and long-term wellbeing.
