Sleep Apnea: When Snoring Leads to Breathing Stops

Sleep apnea

Hello, my husband is 31 years old, 175 cm tall, and weighs 58 kg.
He snores very loudly, and what concerns me the most is that he often stops breathing suddenly in the middle of snoring.
His chest continues to rise and fall, but no air is able to pass through his throat for about ten seconds before he resumes snoring.
Is this phenomenon serious? Does he need to see a doctor? I greatly appreciate your time in answering!

Xiao Qing, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/12/06

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology

Ms.
Xiao Qing, your health issue requires medical treatment.
For more detailed information, please visit my website at http://dryeh.vclxx.org and read the last article in the health and medicine section to gain a better understanding.

Reply Date: 2004/12/06

More Info

Sleep apnea is a serious condition that can have significant health implications, particularly when it manifests as loud snoring followed by periods of breathing cessation during sleep. Your husband's symptoms, as you described, suggest that he may be experiencing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), a common form of sleep apnea where the throat muscles intermittently relax and block the airway during sleep. This can lead to disrupted sleep patterns and reduced oxygen levels in the blood, which can have both immediate and long-term effects on health.

The phenomenon you described, where your husband snores loudly and then experiences a pause in breathing for several seconds, is characteristic of sleep apnea. During these episodes, the body may still exhibit chest movements as if breathing is occurring, but the airflow is obstructed, leading to a temporary cessation of oxygen intake. This can happen multiple times throughout the night, often without the individual being aware of it, and can lead to fragmented sleep and excessive daytime sleepiness.

The severity of sleep apnea can vary widely among individuals. In some cases, it may be mild and not require immediate intervention, while in others, it can be severe and pose significant health risks. These risks include cardiovascular problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke, as well as metabolic issues like diabetes and obesity. Additionally, chronic sleep deprivation due to sleep apnea can lead to cognitive impairments, mood disorders, and decreased quality of life.

Given your husband's age, weight, and the symptoms you've described, it is advisable to seek medical attention. A healthcare provider, particularly one specializing in sleep medicine, can conduct a thorough evaluation, which may include a sleep study (polysomnography) to monitor his sleep patterns, breathing, and oxygen levels throughout the night. This study can help determine the severity of the condition and guide appropriate treatment options.

Treatment for sleep apnea can vary based on its severity and the underlying causes. Common interventions include lifestyle changes such as weight loss, positional therapy (sleeping on one's side instead of the back), and avoiding alcohol and sedatives before bedtime. In more severe cases, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy may be recommended, which involves wearing a mask that provides a steady stream of air to keep the airway open during sleep. Other options may include oral appliances designed to reposition the jaw and tongue to prevent airway obstruction or, in some cases, surgical interventions.

In summary, your husband's symptoms are concerning and warrant further investigation. Sleep apnea is a treatable condition, and early diagnosis and management can significantly improve health outcomes and quality of life. Encourage your husband to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss his symptoms and explore potential diagnostic and treatment options.

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