When a person experiences abnormal breathing patterns during their sleep, there is a high possibility of sleep apnea. This is a condition where the person experiences innumerable pauses in their breath while asleep. Sleep apnea causes a break in breathing rhythm, which largely affects the quality of one’s sleep, leading to less oxygen supply to the body. This causes other health complications. 

Types of sleep apnea

1. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
When the airway at the rear portion of the throat is blocked, it causes lapses in breath temporarily. 

2. Central sleep apnea (CSA)
This is caused when respiratory muscles don’t activate, or the brain fails to signal the respiratory muscles to activate.

Causes of sleep apnea 

1. Obesity
Studies point out that obesity accrues nearly 60-65% of the OSA cases. When a person is obese, their airway narrows further, which leads to difficulty in breathing. It is also empirically proven that just a mere 10% increase in one’s weight could lead to a six to seven-fold increase in OSA risk. 

2. Anatomical causes
The size and positioning of the neck, tongue, tonsils, jaws and other rear throat tissues can directly impact the airflow. A person with an abnormally sized neck tends to have an OSA issue. It is commonly believed that a neck size of 17 inches or more in men and 16 inches or more in women could potentially lead to OSA. 

3. Family history
If a person has a close relative who has OSA, they are likely to develop it themselves at some point in their lives. 

4. Sedative usage
The consumption of certain medications and illicit substances that relax the muscles and tissues of the throat can obstruct airways. 

5. Smoking
Heavy smokers are far more susceptible to OSA than those who do not smoke. In addition, heavy smokers who also have CSA are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with other health complications. 

6. Position of sleep
If the person sleeps on the back, it is easier for the tissues to collapse in and around the airways, causing a blockage. It is therefore advised to sleep on the side.

7. Congestion in the nasal passage
When the ability to breathe through the nose is disrupted because of congestion, the person is far more likely to experience OSA. Examples include a deviated septum, issues with the sinus, and allergies. 

8. Abnormalities in hormones
Thyroid that is underactive and excess hormone growth also significantly increases the risk of OSA. It causes swelling of the tissues in and around the airways and increases the person’s risk of obesity.  

9. Age
Being over 40 only increases the risk of a person falling into the category of OSA. Other co-morbid conditions make the situation even worse. 

Sleep apnea, if untreated, could affect everyday life. It is essential to get medical help immediately.