Things You Didn’t Know Were Causing Your Sleep Apnoea

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Sleep apnoea is a common sleep disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. It is characterized by pauses in breathing or shallow breathing during sleep, which can lead to disrupted sleep and other health problems. While there are known causes of sleep apnoea such as obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption, there are also lesser-known factors that can contribute to this condition. In this blog post, we will explore some surprising things that could be causing your sleep apnoea without you even realizing it.

1. Allergies and sinus problems

One of the lesser-known causes of sleep apnoea is allergies and sinus problems. When we have a stuffy nose or blocked sinuses, it can make it difficult for us to breathe properly during sleep. This can lead to snoring and pauses in breathing, which are the primary symptoms of sleep apnoea. Allergies can also cause inflammation in the airways, making it harder for air to pass through, which can lead to sleep apnoea. So, if you suffer from allergies or sinus problems, it is essential to manage them properly to improve your sleep quality and reduce the risk of sleep apnoea.

2. Medications

Certain medications can also contribute to sleep apnoea. For example, sedatives, tranquilizers, and opioids can relax the muscles in the throat, causing them to collapse and obstruct the airway during sleep. This can result in pauses in breathing and disrupted sleep. If you are taking any of these medications and experiencing symptoms of sleep apnoea, it is essential to consult with your doctor to find alternative treatments or make necessary adjustments to your medication regimen.

3. Sleeping position

Believe it or not, your sleeping position can also play a significant role in the development of sleep apnoea. Sleeping on your back can cause the tongue and soft tissues in the throat to collapse and block the airway, leading to disrupted breathing. This is why many sleep experts recommend sleeping on your side or using a pillow to keep you in a lateral position to reduce the risk of sleep apnoea.

4. Hormonal changes

Things You Didn't Know Were Causing Your Sleep Apnoea

Hormonal changes can also contribute to sleep apnoea, particularly in women. During menopause, women experience a decrease in estrogen levels, which can lead to weight gain and a decrease in muscle tone in the throat. This can result in the narrowing of the airway and increases the risk of sleep apnoea. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also lead to weight gain and changes in airway muscle tone, making pregnant women more susceptible to sleep apnoea.

5. Acid reflux

Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), is a condition where stomach acid flows back up into the esophagus. This can cause irritation and inflammation in the throat, which can lead to breathing difficulties and sleep apnoea. Additionally, acid reflux can also trigger coughing and choking, which can further disrupt sleep and increase the risk of sleep apnoea. If you suffer from acid reflux, it is essential to manage it properly to improve your sleep and reduce the risk of sleep apnoea.

6. Dental issues

Dental issues such as misaligned teeth and jaw can also contribute to sleep apnoea. When the teeth and jaw are not aligned correctly, it can affect the positioning of the tongue and soft tissues in the throat, obstructing the airway during sleep. This is why some dentists may recommend using an oral appliance to keep the airway open during sleep for those who suffer from mild to moderate sleep apnoea.

7. Family history

Sleep apnoea can also be hereditary. If you have a family history of sleep apnoea, you are more likely to develop this condition. This is because certain physical traits, such as a narrow throat, enlarged tonsils, and a recessed chin, can be passed down from parents to their children, increasing the risk of sleep apnoea. If you have a family history of sleep apnoea, it is essential to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical help if necessary.

In conclusion, sleep apnoea can be caused by various factors, not just the traditional risk factors like obesity and alcohol consumption. Allergies, medications, sleeping position, hormonal changes, acid reflux, dental issues, and family history can also contribute to this condition. It is essential to address these factors and seek medical help if you suspect that you may have sleep apnoea. With proper management and treatment, you can improve your sleep and overall health.

Summary:

Sleep apnoea is a common sleep disorder that can have various causes, including allergies, medications, sleeping position, hormonal changes, acid reflux, dental issues, and family history. These factors can contribute to disrupted breathing during sleep, leading to pauses in breathing and other symptoms of sleep apnoea. It is crucial to address these lesser-known causes and seek medical help for proper management and treatment to improve sleep and overall health.