REPEATED BREATHING PAUSES DURING SLEEP
Sleep Apnea
A sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, causing snoring, daytime sleepiness and risk of heart, blood pressure and metabolic complications. Effectively treated with CPAP and lifestyle changes.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which a person's breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, often without their awareness. The most common form is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), in which the throat muscles relax during sleep and block the airway. Repeated breathing pauses cause drops in oxygen levels, disturbed sleep, loud snoring, choking or gasping episodes at night, restless sleep, morning headaches and significant daytime sleepiness, with poor concentration and reduced quality of life. Untreated sleep apnea is linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, arrhythmias and accidents due to drowsiness. Risk factors include obesity, large neck circumference, family history, alcohol use and certain anatomical features. Diagnosis is made with a sleep study, and treatment with CPAP therapy, lifestyle changes and, in selected cases, dental devices or surgery is highly effective. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides comprehensive sleep apnea evaluation and care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Obesity, particularly with a large neck circumference
- Relaxation of throat muscles during sleep (obstructive type)
- Family history of sleep apnea
- Alcohol intake, especially in the evening
- Smoking
- Certain anatomical features such as enlarged tonsils or jaw structure
- Less commonly, brain control of breathing (central sleep apnea)
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Sleep study (polysomnography) — gold standard test
Mild · Moderate · Severe — based on number of breathing pauses per hour
CPAP therapy, weight loss, lifestyle changes, dental devices and surgery in selected cases
High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes and accidents
Confirmed sleep apnea benefits from specialist sleep medicine evaluation
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
CPAP Therapy with Weight Loss & Lifestyle
The most effective approach for moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea is CPAP therapy combined with weight loss, lifestyle modification and treatment of associated conditions. Mild cases may improve with weight loss, positional therapy and dental devices.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews sleep symptoms, daytime sleepiness, weight and risk factors, examines the patient and arranges a sleep study.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created based on the severity of sleep apnea, body weight, anatomical features and patient preference.
- 3
Medical Management
CPAP therapy, weight loss support, lifestyle modification, treatment of associated conditions, and dental device or surgical referral in selected cases.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Regular review to monitor CPAP use, weight changes, daytime symptoms and associated conditions such as blood pressure and blood sugar.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
CPAP Therapy (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure)
CPAP therapy keeps the airway open during sleep using a mask and machine, and is highly effective in moderate to severe sleep apnea.
Weight Loss
Significant weight loss can substantially reduce sleep apnea severity and, in some patients, lead to resolution of the condition.
Lifestyle Modification
Avoiding alcohol in the evening, stopping smoking, sleeping on the side instead of the back, and treating nasal allergies all support better breathing during sleep.
Dental Devices in Selected Cases (Referral for dental specialist)
Custom-made dental devices can help mild to moderate sleep apnea by repositioning the lower jaw forward during sleep.
Surgical Options in Selected Cases (Referral for surgical evaluation)
Selected patients with specific anatomical issues — such as enlarged tonsils or jaw abnormalities — may benefit from surgical treatment.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
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