To diagnose sleep apnea, physicians will examine a person’s sleep patterns. The number of apnea episodes recorded during an hour will help determine the severity of the condition. A person with fewer than five episodes per hour is considered to have mild sleep apnea. People with more than fifteen episodes per hour are considered to have severe sleep apnea.
People with this condition are at a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease. The condition can lead to sudden death. In severe cases, drops in blood oxygen can trigger seizures. Patients with seizure disorders may become unstable if the condition is not treated. The condition may also cause angina or arrhythmias and can result in a heart attack.
Several lifestyle modifications can reduce the severity of the condition. For example, avoiding caffeine and heavy meals before bed can help reduce the risk of sleep apnea.
Nevertheless, most people with this condition will eventually need sleep apnea treatment in Salt Lake City, UT, to keep the airway open during sleep. One such treatment is continuous positive airflow pressure therapy (CPAP), a device that provides air pressure through an airtight nosepiece while you sleep. The device will prevent pauses in breathing, resulting in better sleep.
A medical exam and a detailed medical history can determine if you have sleep apnea. Some people with the disorder will experience daytime fatigue and crankiness. They may also experience depression and anxiety. Additionally, people with sleep apnea may be at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and other conditions.
