Why Do I Have Sleep Apnea?
There are many causes and risk factors for sleep apnea, which can be determined by a sleep apnea doctor. The main causes and risk factors include:
-Excess Weight - Obesity and overweight greatly increases the risk of sleep apnea as fat deposits around the upper airway can obstruct breathing. Additionally, extra weight on the chest can restrict airflow.
-Neck Circumference - People with thicker necks sometimes have narrower airways, which would make it more difficult to breathe.
-Genetics - It is possible to inherit physical characteristics that make it more difficult to breathe, such as a narrow throat. Tonsils or adenoids can also enlarge and block the airway, which is particularly common in children.
-Gender - Sleep apnea is more than twice as likely to occur in men than it is in women.
However, the risk for women is increased if they are overweight (including pregnancy weight), and appears to rise after menopause.
-Age - Sleep apnea occurs significantly more often in older adults than it does in younger adults.
-Family History - Having family members with sleep apnea might increase the risk of developing the condition.
-Use of Alcohol, Sedatives or Tranquilizers - These substances relax the throat muscles, which can worsen the condition.
-Smoking - People who smoke are three times more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea than are people who have never smoked. This is because smoking can increase the amount of fluid retention and inflammation in the upper airway.
-Nasal Congestion - Difficulty breathing through the nose whether caused by an anatomical problem or allergies makes it more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea.
-Medical Conditions - Certain medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and Parkinson's disease, may increase the risk of obstructive sleep apnea. Other conditions that can increase the risk of developing sleep apnea include polycystic ovary syndrome, hormonal disorders, prior stroke and chronic lung diseases such as asthma.
