Sleep apnea is when a person stops breathing on and off during sleep. However one of the most dangerous forms of this condition is central sleep apnea, where the body fails to signal the lungs to inhale on a regular basis. When a person doesn’t inhale as they should this means they’re not getting oxygen on a regular cycle as the body needs. This regular cycle of oxygen is so important that the body can and does force itself to breathe even if you consciously try to hold your breath. Central sleep apnea musn’t be ignored.
During periods of central sleep apnea, the heart will respond to this lack of oxygen intake by increasing the heart rate, causing stress and strain to the heart muscles. This is not like increasing your heart rate when you exercise which is good for the body. An increased heart rate during exercise is always accompanied by breathing oxygen in and carbon dioxide out, but not so with central sleep apnea! The heart is having to work harder but it is doing so without oxygen which can be very damaging.
It is thought that seizures can be caused by central sleep apnea. This is caused by the sudden drop in blood oxygen levels, and this occurs whether the person has a seizure disorder or not. Other complications from central sleep apnea include angina and heart attacks as the heart is being damaged with each episode. Additionally, the lack of regular breathing that occurs with any form of sleep apnea can result in a buildup of carbon dioxide in the bloodstream which means blood poisoning.
As with central sleep apnea, all forms of sleep apnea should be addressed as quickly and effectively as possible. A person that is overweight should endeavor to bring their weight under control. A snore pillow can keep the head from falling back and the tongue from blocking the throat and airway. A humidifier in the bedroom can help with keeping sinuses open. In severe cases, especially when dealing with central sleep apnea, a CPAP machine can keep oxygen pumping into the body at regular intervals. At any rate, this is not a condition to be ignored or dismissed but should be addressed!
Category: General