Sleep apnea is a condition in which sleep is disturbed by several pauses in breathing. Sometimes a person will also experience light or shallow breathing during the night while resting. There are three types of the this disorder Obstructive, Central and Mixed. Learn what makes each type different the risks and treatments as well.

Obstructive is the most common. This is caused by an excessively relaxed soft palate and uvula completely blocking an airway. This form of the disorder is more common in obese individuals and those with facial deformities.

Central is caused by the central nervous system. Unlike obstructive this form of the disorder is neurological, while the first type is physical. This neurological disorder causes the brain to send incorrect signals to the respiratory system causing a disruption in breathing. When this happens the oxygen levels in blood drop and the brain begins its process in restoring breathing to normal.

Mixed is of course a mixture of the first two types of disorders. In the case of mixed the issue begins as central and progressed to obstructive. This particular disorder has been known to be treatable once diagnosed. Mixed apnea is harder to treat than the others because each type has to be identified before treatment can start.

Regardless the type symptoms often go unnoticed because they are very normal, seemingly harmless behaviors. Among the symptoms are loud snoring, headaches upon waking up, high blood and excessive sweating while sleeping. Gasping for breath while sleeping and stoppages of breathing are also some overlooked symptoms.

A diagnosis can be made through tests that can confirm that the condition is the reason for the symptoms. The PSG is among the most common test for this disorder. Usually this test is preformed overnight, the patient will have electrodes attached to their body that will monitor the patients movements during sleep. This includes brainwaves eye movements muscle tension and snoring and other physical responses the patient may have.

One successful treatment is CPAP. This involves an electrical device that is placed nearby while resting at night. The CPAP machine captures normal air and keeps airways open by pressurizing the air and delivering it through a flexible tube. A mask is attached to the tube allowing free delivery of the air. Oxygen can also be added to the air if a patient needs this as well. Many people have reported improvement after just one treatment.

The benefits of treating a disorder like this are noticed immediately. Patients notice improved rest quality, productivity, and mood. Others report better concentration during the day, feeling more alert and a restored sleep pattern. Once a diagnosis is made the results are life changing and make sleeping a truly relaxing experience.

This condition can be very frustrating and sometimes can also go unnoticed for years. Treating this disorder is not nearly as difficult as diagnosing it. The right treatment can save a person much stress and many sleepless nights. More information on this disorder and treatment can be found online or by calling a professional.

Author Bio: In Canada, CPAP Masks Toronto machines are often available at large discounts online, but a patient purchasing a CPAP Toronto personally must handle the responsibility of securing reimbursement from from his or her insurance or Medicare.

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