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Sleep Disordered Breathing is an umbrella term for a series of different breathing patterns that have the potential to interrupt your sleep. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common causes of sleep-disordered breathing and how to treat them!

What is Sleep Disordered Breathing?

Sleep Disordered Breathing (SDB) is a medical condition characterized by abnormal breathing patterns during sleep. The most common form of SDB is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing. Although SDB can occur in people of any age, it is more common in adults and is often associated with obesity.

SDB can lead to many health problems, including daytime fatigue, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. It can also adversely affect the quality of life by causing insomnia and interfering with work and social activities. If you think you may have SDB, you must see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

The 7 Causes of Sleep-Disordered Breathing

1. Obesity: Excess weight around the neck can block the airway and make breathing difficult during sleep.

2. Smoking: Cigarette smoke irritates the airway and increases inflammation, leading to sleep-disordered breathing.

3. Alcohol Use: Alcohol relaxes the muscles in the throat and can block the airway.

4. Medications: Some medications, such as sedatives, can cause sleep-disordered breathing.

5. Aging: As we age, our throats narrow and our muscles relax, which can lead to sleep-disordered breathing.

6. Sleep Position: Sleeping on your back allows gravity to collapse the throat and block the airway. Sleeping on your stomach can put pressure on your chest and make breathing difficult.

7. Anatomical abnormalities: A deviated septum, large tonsils, or a small jaw can all contribute to sleep-disordered breathing.

Signs and Symptoms of Sleep Disordered Breathing

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a common disorder that can cause serious health problems. SDB includes conditions such as snoring and sleep apnea.

Most people with SDB are not aware of it. The partner or family member may be the first to notice the signs and symptoms, which can include:

• Loud snoring
• Gasping or choking during sleep
• Restless sleep
• Daytime fatigue or sleepiness
•  Morning headaches
• Poor concentration or memory problems
• Mood changes, such as irritability or depression

How to Manage Sleep-Disordered Breathing

Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is a common disorder that can disrupt sleep and cause daytime fatigue. SDB occurs when you have difficulty breathing during sleep. It can be due to obstruction of your airways, such as snoring or sleep apnea, or it can be due to other conditions affecting your ability to breathe correctly during sleep.

You can do several things to manage SDB and get the restful sleep you need. First, avoid smoking and secondhand smoke exposure, as this can worsen SDB. If you drink alcohol, limit your consumption to no more than two drinks per day. Avoiding caffeine in the evening can also help you sleep better.

If you have trouble sleeping on your back, try sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs. It can help keep your airway open. Elevating the head of your bed may also help. And finally, make sure to see a doctor if you may have SDB to get treatment and find relief from this bothersome condition.

The Takeaway!

If you regularly suffer from sleep-disordered breathing, you must know the potential causes. By understanding the root cause of your sleep apnea, you and your doctor can develop a treatment plan that is best suited for you. In some cases, lifestyle changes may be all that is needed to reduce or eliminate sleep apnea symptoms. However, in other cases, more aggressive treatment options may be necessary. Regardless of the cause of your sleep-disordered breathing, there are treatments available that can help you get a good night’s rest.

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