Sleep apnea, specifically Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA), is a dangerous breathing condition. Its symptoms may not appear until later in life, but the condition can come about a lot earlier. It is not uncommon that patients are not aware that they have OSA despite having problems with breathing and sleep. This is due to the fact that some of the biggest symptoms and causes of sleep apnea still remain unknown to the public knowledge. So, is asthma a risk factor for sleep apnea?
Is Asthma a Risk Factor for Sleep Apnea?
Today, your trusted asthma specialist will answer some important questions about OSA. Is asthma a risk factor for sleep apnea? What are the major causes to look out for? Is it possible to treat sleep apnea?
What Sleep Apnea Feels Like
There are countless obstacles that could be getting in the way of a good night’s rest. The average American snores or knows someone who snores, which can be indicative of some underlying health issues. If you are always tired and you are never getting enough sleep, you may be too stressed due to work. Or, you may be struggling with undiagnosed sleep apnea.
Symptoms can develop gradually, making it seem like they are not there at all. The most common indicators of sleep apnea include:
- Being very asleep, almost like being in a coma
- Constant tiredness, no matter how much sleep you get
- Frequent mood swings
- Waking up with headaches in the morning
- Trouble falling asleep; insomnia
- Waking up at night choking and trying to get air
- Having trouble breathing
Some of these symptoms are already built into your genetic makeup, while others may be formed due to certain risk factors. Unhealthy eating, sudden and intense weight gain, and certain breathing conditions like asthma.
Linking Asthma and Sleep Apnea
Plenty of scientific research shows that asthma and sleep apnea are related. The unmistakable association comes from the fact that both conditions obstruct the upper respiratory airways, making it difficult to breathe. If you have been recently diagnosed with asthma, it might be more likely that you will experience the symptoms of sleep apnea as well.
No matter what, disruption in your sleeping and breathing patterns needs to be addressed right away. Since snoring can be indicative of a larger breathing issue, it will only get worse if it goes on without care. Make sure you know what kind of treatment you need when you get in touch with your sleep apnea doctor.
Best Sleep Apnea Treatments
After an asthma diagnosis, you will be given prescription medication and an inhaler to use in the event of an oncoming attack. Sleep apnea treatment requires more consistent care to keep your rest schedule on track. After taking a sleep test, your doctor will determine the severity of your sleep apnea symptoms and prescribe a good solution that works with your needs. While sleep apnea cannot be fully cured, it can be treated and managed with a nightly routine.
The most common type of treatment for sleep apnea is the use of a CPAP machine, which is a breathing device worn on the nose and mouth overnight. While it may seem daunting to wear a device while you sleep, you will soon get used to the comfort and steady airflow that the machine provides. You can continue checking in with your sleep apnea doctor to make sure you are getting the correct level of treatment.
Visit Dr. Mayank Shukla Today
It is easy to start a personalized plan of care with Dr. Mayank Shukla when you schedule an appointment with us ASAP. From asthma to sleep apnea, we understand the complexities that come from breathing and sleep disorders. We will provide you with the tools and medicine you need to stay healthy and happy for many years to come.
