• About
  • Contact
  • Testimonials
  • Newsletter
  • More
    • Demographics & Advertising Rates
    • Terms & Conditions
Sunday, March 26, 2023
No Result
View All Result
California Business Journal
  • Front Page
  • Business
  • Finance
  • People
  • Featured
  • Opinion
  • Technology
  • Law
  • News
  • Food
  • Art & Culture
  • Human Interest
  • Education
  • Insurance
  • Real Estate
  • Health & Fitness
California Business Journal
sleep apnea

5 Sleep Apnea Myths That Need To Be Busted

Sleep apnea is common. Here is insight on how to better understand it and combat it.

by California Business Journal Editorial Staff
A A
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter

So, you come home after a long day of work and can’t wait to hit the bed after finishing household chores. You put on your favorite pair of pajamas, switch off your smartphone, and are all set to doze off. But then just as you’re about to fall asleep, your partner breaks into a fit of loud snoring.

If you relate to this situation, you’re not alone. Nearly 50% of adults in the U.S. report snoring in their sleep. There are plenty of factors that cause snoring, including seasonal allergies, respiratory problems, and nasal congestion. However, snoring is often associated with a more serious disorder called sleep apnea.

What is Sleep Apnea?

Simply put, it’s a sleep disorder that repeatedly disrupts normal breathing while a person is sleeping. Broadly, it can be categorized into the following:

  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Central sleep apnea
  • Complex sleep apnea syndrome

While obstructive sleep apnea occurs due to some form of blockage or constriction of the airway, central sleep apnea is a result of the brain’s inability to send the right signals to the muscles that control our body’s breathing cycle. Complex sleep apnea syndrome is a combination of the two.

Out of these, obstructive sleep apnea or OSA is the most prevalent. It affects nearly 25 million adults in the U.S. While it’s one of the most common sleep-related ailments, there are numerous myths and misconceptions surrounding it.

ADVERTISEMENT

In this blog, we’ll address a few such myths associated with sleep apnea. Let’s get started.

1. It’s Just Harmless Snoring

While snoring is the most common manifestation of OSA, it also disrupts your sleep cycle. It’s because sleep apnea restricts the supply of oxygen in your blood while you’re asleep. This, in turn, can cause you to wake up and gasp or breathe heavily. You could even stop breathing altogether for a few seconds. 

While you might go back to sleep soon after, you’ll wake up with a bad headache and low energy levels in the morning. In the long run, this can affect your overall moods and even interfere with your professional and personal life.

Worse still, it increases your risk of developing other chronic ailments, including hypertension and diabetes. In rare cases, OSA could also have fatal consequences. That’s why you should never dismiss sleep apnea as just an episode of benign snoring.

If you or someone you know has recently developed the habit of snoring, it’s always a good idea to consult a certified ENT specialist. They’ll help you diagnose the root cause of your snoring and identify whether you’re suffering from OSA.

2. If I’m Not Snoring, I Don’t Have Sleep Apnea

Snoring is common in people suffering from sleep apnea. But it isn’t the only symptom. For instance, some people suffering from OSA may only experience heavy or distressed breathing while asleep.

Worse still, you may not always remember experiencing these symptoms and continue with your life as it is. This is especially common for people who live alone or don’t have anyone around to monitor their breathing.

That’s why it is important to know about other symptoms of OSA, such as choking, gasping for air, and difficulty staying asleep. Also, if you have OSA, you might end up with a dry or scratchy throat every morning. Or you might just feel drowsy, inattentive, and agitated throughout the day.

3. It Only Affects Adults

While OSA is more common in adults, it can also affect children. However, unlike adults, children suffering from sleep apnea often experience behavioral issues. Certain disorders, including cerebral palsy and Down’s syndrome, also make children more susceptible to OSA.

Other symptoms of pediatric OSA include:

  • Labored breathing
  • Snorting or coughing
  • Sleep terrors
  • Disturbed sleep
  • Lack of focus and concentration
  • Hyperactivity
  • Bed-wetting
  • Night terrors

Chronic sleep apnea in kids can lead to a wide array of other problems, including poor academic performance and learning disabilities. Worse still, it can lead to cardiac disorders and even death. If you know a child breathes heavily or chokes in their sleep, make sure you advise their parents to consult a pediatrician.

4. You Can’t Use a Weighted Blanket If You Have Sleep Apnea

Weighted blankets have emerged as a blessing for people who have trouble sleeping. These therapeutic blankets contain plastic pellets or glass beads that apply firm and gentle pressure on your body to relax your nervous system.

Apart from managing insomnia, weighted blankets are also used to relieve anxiety, stress, and chronic pain. Likewise, these blankets can help children with sensory processing issues remain calm and focused. Whether you’re looking for a children’s weighted blanket or an iced blanket, you’ll find plenty of options.

But many people suffering from sleep apnea are concerned that the extra weight of the blanket can disrupt their breathing even further. In reality, however, a weighted blanket relaxes the muscles in your body and reduces your heart rate, thereby helping you breathe easier. 

 

However, if you have sleep apnea or any other respiratory disorder, it’s wiser to consult a physician and discuss whether it’s safe to use a weighted blanket. Likewise, if you’re contemplating getting a weighted blanket for your kid, make sure you consult their pediatrician first.

5. It Only Happens to Obese People

Yes. Overweight or obese people are more likely to develop OSA because of the extra fat constricting their upper airways. However, increased body weight isn’t the only cause of sleep apnea. Even if you’re fit and active, you might be genetically or anatomically predisposed to the disorder.

Also, other factors, including alcohol consumption and smoking can lead you to develop OSA. In children, it’s often caused by enlarged adenoids and tonsils. It can also be a result of your sleeping position.

While sleep apnea is fairly common, it often goes undiagnosed in most children and adults. However, it can have various adverse consequences, including heart failure and death. Make sure you watch out for subtle signs such as a dry mouth or headache after waking up to detect the onset of sleep apnea.

What techniques are you using to manage obstructive sleep apnea? Share your suggestions in the comments section below

Tags: alcoholbrainCerebral Palsycertifiedchildrenenergyfocusplasticsleep apnea
ADVERTISEMENT
California Business Journal Editorial Staff

California Business Journal Editorial Staff

Related Posts

How Can A Sleeping Ring Improve Your Health And Well-Being
How Can A Sleeping Ring Improve Your Health And Well-Being?
How to Make Stretch Marks Less Noticeable
How to Make Stretch Marks Less Noticeable
How To Relieve Back Pain With Changing Your Sleep Habits
How To Relieve Back Pain With Changing Your Sleep Habits
sleeping pad2.5mp
Getting The Right Sleeping Pads
Charles Smith
Commentary: Executive Team Alignment is More Essential Now Than Ever
Dr. Chris Harts4
Oventus Medical Is Revolutionizing the Treatment of Sleep Apnea
pexels-photo-935777
Top Sleep Hacks to Maximize Your Productivity
advertisement
ADVERTISEMENT

CBJ Newsletter

Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Instagram LinkedIn

Advertise With CBJ

Contact Rick@CalBizJournal.com

CBJ Rates and Demographics

Job Postings

CEO Wanted


Requirements: BS/BA + 2yrs of Business Managing Experience

Mail Resume: Grand Life, Inc. 14647 Northam St. La Mirada, CA 90638.

$114,754/year

ADVERTISEMENT
1REALTOUR-SAN DIEGO-WEB DESIGN
Facebook Twitter LinkedIn LinkedIn Instagram Youtube
C B J   LOGO  SVG-01
  • About
  • Contact California Business Journal
  • Testimonials
  • Demographics & Advertising Rates
  • Terms & Conditions

Categories

  • Art & Culture
  • Business
  • California Hotel Listings
  • Daily Updates
  • Editor's Choice
  • Education
  • Featured
  • Finance
  • Food & Dining
  • Health & Fitness
  • Human Interest
  • Insurance
  • Law
  • Lawyers
  • Marketing
  • Medical
  • News
  • Newsletter
  • Opinion
  • People
  • Popular
  • Real Estate
  • Social Media
  • Technology
  • Uncategorized

CBJ Partner Firebrand Media

Laguna Beach Independent Newspaper
 Laguna Beach City Guide
 Newport Beach Independent Newspaper
Newport Beach Country Club Magazine
  Montage Magazine
 Omni Escapes Hotel Magazine
 Bespoke Concierge New York
 Evans Hotels
 Laguna Beach Magazine
 On The Menu Laguna Beach
 Newport Beach Magazine
Coastal Real Estate Guide (NB,LB, CDM)
Monarch Beach Resort Magazine
 Pacific Coast Magazine (SoCal)
Sea Island Life Magazine
Salamander Hotel & Resorts Magazine
 View our entire portfolio

 

Most Viewed

  • Gavel, scales of justice and law books

    Lawsuit Basics: How Much Does It Cost to Sue Someone?

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Investigation: Can TriumphFX Take Your Money?

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • The Impact of Covid: Racing to Buy Second Citizenships

    3 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • What to Do When an Online Casino Refuses to Pay Out Your Winnings

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • The Truth About Temu: Where Is It From?

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Top 5 Flavors On Elf Bar BC5000 Review

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • NFL Paychecks: How Do NFL Players Get Paid?

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Temu’s New Shipping Policy Is A Smashing Hit For Shoppers All Over the Country

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • Five Reasons Why The Government Does Not Like Bitcoin

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0
  • How to Start a Telecommunication Business: A Step-By-Step Guide

    0 shares
    Share 0 Tweet 0

Latest Articles

Can You Trust Temu on Facebook and its Referral Games and Rewards?

Can You Trust Temu on Facebook and its Referral Games and Rewards?

Shoe Packing Isn’t as Easy as You Think on Moving Day

Shoe Packing Isn’t as Easy as You Think on Moving Day

How to Prepare Your Home for a Successful Sale

How to Prepare Your Home for a Successful Sale

Is It Possible to Track Facebook Messenger Secretly?

Is It Possible to Track Facebook Messenger Secretly?

How To Date Over 60 Successfully?

How To Date Over 60 Successfully?

BioLargo’s PFAS Treatment Technology Meets EPA’s Proposed New Drinking Water Standards

BioLargo’s PFAS Treatment Technology Meets EPA’s Proposed New Drinking Water Standards

7 Factors to Consider While Picking the Right Freight Carrier for Your E-Commerce Business

7 Factors to Consider While Picking the Right Freight Carrier for Your E-Commerce Business

The Marketing Effect On Healthcare and Wellness Organizations

The Marketing Effect On Healthcare and Wellness Organizations

5 Reasons Why E-Commerce Businesses Rely So Much on Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Services

Why E-Commerce Businesses Rely So Much on Third-Party Logistics (3PL) Services

Making The Smart Choice: Why You Should Shop Online For Best Selling Products

Making The Smart Choice: Why You Should Shop Online For Best Selling Products

California Business Journal | California Business News, California News Media, California business articles | Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Inland Empire, Northern California, San Francisco | Huntington Beach CA 92649 | (949) 648-3815
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY CALIFORNIA BUSINESS JOURNAL.
Site Design by 1REALTOUR

No Result
View All Result
  • Front Page
  • Business
  • Finance
  • People
  • Featured
  • Opinion
  • Technology
  • Law
  • News
  • Food
  • Art & Culture
  • Human Interest
  • Education
  • Insurance
  • Real Estate
  • Health & Fitness

California Business Journal | California Business News, California News Media, California business articles | Orange County, Los Angeles, San Diego, Inland Empire, Northern California, San Francisco | Huntington Beach CA 92649 | (949) 648-3815
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED BY CALIFORNIA BUSINESS JOURNAL.
Site Design by 1REALTOUR