Sleep apnea is incredibly common, and many people don’t even know they have it. That’s why it’s so important to be able to recognize the risk factors for this condition so you can get the treatment you need as soon as you can. Continue reading to know if you are at risk for sleep apnea. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call. By seeking a diagnosis, you can work toward getting the quality sleep you need to thrive.
Gaining Too Much Weight
If you have a lot of excess weight, fat deposits can build up around your upper airway. This increases the likelihood of your throat muscles becoming flaccid or relaxed at night. When this happens, obstruction can occur, interrupting your sleep and preventing you from getting quality rest.
Narrowed Airway
If you naturally have a narrow airway, you are at increased risk of experiencing a blockage. This is especially the case if you also have swollen tonsils or adenoids. The less space there is for air to travel through your airway, the more likely that you will experience apnea.
Being Male
Men are at higher risk of sleep apnea than women. In fact, men are two to three times more likely to develop this disorder. The reason for this isn’t known, but it is important to be aware of if you are a man.
Age
The older you are, the higher your risk of sleep apnea is. This is probably due to the fact that older people tend to have more fatty deposits around their throat, increasing the risk of sleep apnea.
Family History
If your parents or siblings have sleep apnea, it’s possible that you could have it too. Knowing about your family history can help you catch this disorder and other health issues early so you can get started with treatment.
Using Alcohol or Sedatives
Having a drink or taking sleeping medication may seem like they help you sleep, but they can actually cause your throat muscles to relax. This can make existing sleep apnea more severe.
Smoking
Smokers are three times more likely to suffer from obstructive sleep apnea than nonsmokers. Using tobacco can inflame your upper airway, increasing your risk of obstruction.
Nasal Congestion
If you have issues related to your sinuses, like allergies or another condition, nasal congestion can interfere with your airflow. This can cause you to experience sleep apnea episodes more frequently.
Physicians
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