Sleep apnea
In sleep apnea, breathing stops for longer than 10 seconds. The result is a drop in oxygen saturation in the blood and, as a consequence, in the entire body – including the brain and heart.
This is often accompanied by unnoticed and constantly recurring wake-up reactions. Restful sleep is no longer possible – the ability to concentrate and perform during the day is considerably reduced.
Sleep apnea effects
Sleep apnea can have serious effects:
- High blood pressure
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Risk of heart attack
- Increased risk of stroke
- Microsleep while driving and at work
- Depression and listlessness
- Disturbed sexuality
In short, quality of life is reduced and life expectancy is lowered.
Airway in the throat is completely blocked. If the throat muscles and tongue relax too much, the airway becomes blocked – causing a temporary closure of the airway. Short pauses in breathing are the result.