Risk Factors of Sleep Apnea

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Sleep apnea is a widely spread disorder involving frequent pauses of breathing for up to 10 seconds during night's sleep. This condition can affect anyone, even children. There are particular factors that increase the  risk of sleep apnea, however not all people know about them. Being aware of risk factors makes it possible for potential patients to search for immediate medical help.

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Risk factors include:

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   Old age. Those who are over the age of 65, most of the time, experience sleep apnea symptoms;

 

   Being male. Statistics show that obstructive sleep apnea is more likely to occur in men than in women;

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   Consume alcohol and sedatives. Alcohol and sedatives decrease muscle tone, which results in obstruction;

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   Smoking. Since smoking causes inflammation in the upper airway, those who smoke are thrice more likely to suffer from this

   condition;

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   Snoring. Most of the time, snoring is a symptom of sleep apnea, especially chronic snoring, as it involves stretching of soft

   palate, which, in turn, increases the possibility of collapsing;

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   Hereditary background. This disorder may run in the family.  Those whose relatives experience sleep apnea are at risk.

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Sleep apnea is not the disorder to be neglected. If you suffer this condition, talk to your doctor about possible treatment options. If to leave it untreated, it can be detrimental to your health.