Sleep apnea is a prevalent sleep disorder that impacts the quality of sleep for a significant number of individuals. There are various types of sleep apnea, each characterized by distinct triggers and causes. One such type is obstructive sleep apnea, which occurs when the upper airway becomes obstructed, leading to difficulties in breathing properly. On the other hand, central sleep apnea is caused by the brain’s inability to send the necessary signals for breathing. In some cases, individuals may experience a combination of both types, known as complex sleep apnea syndrome.
Excess Weight
Obstructive sleep apnea is often found in individuals who are classified as overweight or obese. Within the neck, fat deposits called pharyngeal fat accumulate, leading to the blockage of the upper airway during sleep. This blockage is also the reason behind the common symptom of snoring in sleep apnea patients. Furthermore, excessive fat can exert pressure on the chest wall, resulting in a decrease in lung volume.
Smoking and its association with obstructive sleep apnea
According to research, individuals who smoke are three times more likely to develop obstructive sleep apnea compared to those who have never smoked. This heightened risk can be attributed to both the increased vulnerability to respiratory conditions among smokers and the direct impact of smoking on sleep apnea development. The act of smoking leads to inflammation in the upper airway, along with fluid build-up or edema, which can contribute to the occurrence of sleep apnea.