Sleep apnea is a common sleep condition in which breathing stops and starts multiple times during the night. There are many different causes of this condition, most of which can be treated with medical intervention for sleep apnea in Greenville, TX. If you are experiencing sleep apnea symptoms, including loud snoring and difficulty breathing, consider seeking medical attention to assist in treatment for this condition and talk to a pulmonary expert about any lifestyle changes that may improve your symptoms to help you get a better night's sleep.

Causes of Sleep Apnea

The most common type of sleep apnea is called obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), which occurs when tissues of the mouth or throat relax too much during sleep periods, resulting in partial or full blockage of the airway. Obstructive sleep apnea can be triggered by any of the following factors, including:

• Increased weight or obesity
• Having a thicker neck, enlarged tonsils or adenoids, or a naturally narrow airway
• Nasal congestion
• Biological sex, as typically OSA is more common in men than in women
• Age, as typically OSA is more common in adults over the age of 40
• Genetic predisposition
• Substance and drug use, including smoking

The second, less common type of sleep apnea is called central sleep apnea (CSA). Central sleep apnea occurs when there is a disconnect between the brain and muscles responsible for breathing, thereby stopping breathing completely. In addition to age and sex, other conditions that may trigger CSA include:

• Stroke
• Congestive heart failure or irregular heartbeat
• Medications such as sedatives, opioids, and methadone
• Brain tumors or lesions on the brain stem

Whether obstructive or central sleep apnea affects your breathing and quality of sleep, both types of sleep apnea can be treated in Greenville, TX.

Treatments for Sleep Apnea

If you are experiencing sleep apnea symptoms in Greenville, TX, the experts at Greenville Pulmonary Associates are here to help you get back to a healthier lifestyle and a better night's sleep. Treatments for sleep apnea include changes in lifestyle, sleep positions, or oral appliances but will be discussed between you and your doctor to determine which treatment will be best for you. To make an appointment or talk to a pulmonary specialist, please call us today at (903) 454-9976.