SLEEP DISORDERS

What is sleep apnea? | What causes sleep apnea? | What are the different types of sleep apnea? | Who suffers from sleep apnea?
What are the symptoms of sleep apnea? | What sleep apnea treatments are available?

Who suffers from sleep apnea?

Sleep apnea affects people of all ages, including children, although it is more commonly seen in men over the age of 40. It is also more commonly seen in people who are overweight.

In very young children sleep apnea has been linked with Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), while in older children it is often associated with being overweight, or with having unusually large tonsils or adenoids. In the case of children, snoring should be taken as a warning sign of the possible presence of sleep apnea as, although snoring is common in the adult population, it is not something that is normally seen in children.

Sleep apnea is also commonly seen in people with unusually large tongues, excessive tissue around the pharynx (the soft area at the top of the throat where the passages from the nose and mouth connect with the throat) and particularly small airways.

There is also evidence to suggest that there may be a genetic basis for some instances of sleep apnea and that it is possible to inherit the condition.

The information contained here should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of an appropriately qualified and licensed physician or other health care provider.

The information provided here is for educational and informational purposes only and in no way should be considered as an offering of medical advice.