Sleep Apnea Causes & Risks

Causes

There are three types of respiratory events:

Obstructive apnea—caused by a temporary, partial, or complete blockage of the airway
Central apnea—caused by a temporary failure to make an effort to breathe
Mixed apnea—combination of the first two types

Risk Factors

These factors increase your chance of developing sleep apnea. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

Sex: male
Overweight
Age: middle to older age
Family history of apnea
Structural abnormalities of the nose, throat, or other part of the respiratory tract. Examples include:
- Polyps
- Severely enlarged tonsils
- Deviated nasal septum
Hypothyroidism
Medications: sedatives and sleeping aids
Alcohol consumption
Smoking

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2012 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.

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