What is sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder that causes you to stop breathing during sleep. It’s important to understand the signs and symptoms and consult your doctor if you think you might have it. Treating sleep apnea with CPAP therapy can help you get the rest you need and take back control of your life.

Did you know?

Source: Benjafield AV et al. Estimation of the global prevalence and burden of obstructive sleep apnoea: A literature-based analysis. Vol 7:8; 687-98. Lancet Respir Med 2019

What causes sleep apnea?

There are three main types of sleep apnea, but the most common is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). When we sleep, the throat relaxes. For people with OSA, sometimes they relax so much that the airway becomes narrowed or blocked. As a result, air flow is reduced or completely stops flowing into the upper airway and the lungs, so the body doesn't get the oxygen it needs to function.

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What happens when you have sleep apnea?

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Air stops flowing

An apnea event is when air stops flowing to your lungs for ten seconds or longer, meaning you stop breathing.

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Brain sends a signal

Your brain sends a signal to your body to wake up and take a breath. You take a breath and fall back to sleep.

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Cycle repeats

These apnea events can occur hundreds of times a night and many people with sleep apnea don’t know it's happening.

Benefits of sleep apnea treatment and CPAP therapy

Effective sleep apnea therapy, which includes the use of CPAP equipment, has been shown to help ease common symptoms and improve energy levels, productivity and overall mind-body wellness. It's important to remember that if left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to other serious health issues.

What to do about sleep apnea

If you think you or a loved one has sleep apnea, follow these 6 steps:

01

Take ResMed's free sleep assessment

The most common sign of sleep apnea is snoring. Complete a quick 3-minute assessment to see if you might be at risk for sleep apnea.

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02

Talk to your doctor

After taking the sleep assessment, discuss your symptoms and results with your doctor.

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03

Take a sleep test at a clinic or at home

Your doctor may recommend you schedule a sleep test to get a better idea of your snoring habits. It can be done in a sleep test clinic or in the comfort of your home.

04

Discuss treatment options

Your doctor will review your sleep test results. If you're diagnosed with sleep apnea, they will write a prescription for CPAP therapy and equipment. Read on for treatment options and next steps.

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05

Pick up your CPAP mask and equipment

Find a home medical equipment store near you or online and bring your prescription. Your CPAP mask is one of the most important parts of therapy, so research options before your visit.

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06

Start CPAP therapy

Once you start using your CPAP equipment, don't forget to register your new ResMed products to receive CPAP therapy tips and more.

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Common questions about sleep apnea answered

What type of sleep apnea do I have?

There are three types of sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea (CSA) and mixed sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea accounts for 84% of sleep apnea diagnoses. 3 Source: Palnitkar G, et al., “Obstructive sleep apnea in adults: identifying risk factors and tailoring therapy,” Medicine Today (2012) 13(8):14-23. Consult your doctor to find out if you have sleep apnea.

How do I know if I have sleep apnea?

A sleep test performed by medical professionals is the best way to diagnose sleep apnea. The most common sign of sleep apnea is snoring. Depending on the type of sleep apnea you have, other symptoms can include:

  • Being told you stop breathing during sleep
  • Excessive daytime tiredness or fatigue
  • Morning headaches
  • High blood pressure

What would put me at risk of having sleep apnea?

It’s important to remember anyone can have sleep apnea – men, women and children. It is typically associated with:

  • A narrow throat airway
  • Overweight/obese
  • Family history of sleep apnea
  • Increasing age

I’m fit and athletic. Can I have sleep apnea?

Yes. While many people who have sleep apnea are overweight, others are quite fit. The natural shape and structure of your airway (your nose and throat) plays a big role in your chance of developing sleep apnea.

I’m tired all the time. Should I be worried?

Many things can make us tired. Sometimes we just need to practice good sleep habits. If you feel extra tired in the morning, even though you thought you got a good night’s sleep, then you may have a sleep disorder like sleep apnea. Any problems with your sleep should be discussed with your doctor.

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Sleep apnea affects 1 in 3 people. Are you one of them? 1Source: Benjafield AV et al. Estimation of the global prevalence and burden of obstructive sleep apnoea: A literature-based analysis. Vol 7:8; 687-98. Lancet Respir Med 2019

Find out in less than 3 minutes with ResMed’s free sleep assessment.

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Keep exploring

Sleep apnea treatment overview

Learn more about the sleep apnea treatment experience and what you can expect after diagnosis.

Do I have sleep apnea?

Take our free sleep assessment today and find out if you might be at risk for sleep apnea in just 3 minutes.

Need any help?

Having any difficulties? talk to us so we can make our CPAP journey even better

References

1

Source: Benjafield AV et al. Estimation of the global prevalence and burden of obstructive sleep apnoea: A literature-based analysis. Vol 7:8; 687-98. Lancet Respir Med 2019

1

Source: Benjafield AV et al. Estimation of the global prevalence and burden of obstructive sleep apnoea: A literature-based analysis. Vol 7:8; 687-98. Lancet Respir Med 2019

2

Source: This patient story is a genuine and documented account of the individual's response to treatment. Outcomes and results may vary, and this individual's response does not provide any indication, warranty or guarantee that other people will have the same or a similar experience. Talk to your healthcare professional for further information. All patient story videos are originated in USA.

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Source: Palnitkar G, et al., “Obstructive sleep apnea in adults: identifying risk factors and tailoring therapy,” Medicine Today (2012) 13(8):14-23.