Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. If you have sleep apnea, you may snore loudly. You may also experience periods of stopped breathing during sleep.
Sleep apnea usually is a chronic (ongoing) condition that disrupts your sleep. When your breathing pauses or becomes shallow, you’ll often move out of deep sleep and into light sleep. As a result, you’ll spend more time in light sleep and less time in deep sleep, which leaves you feeling tired during the day. Sleep apnea can also cause heart problems.
There are three types of sleep apnea:
- Obstructive sleep apnea. This, the most common type of sleep apnea, occurs when your throat muscles intermittently relax and block your airway during sleep.
- Central sleep apnea. This type occurs when your brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control your breathing.
- Mixed sleep apnea. This type includes both obstructive sleep apnea and central sleep apnea.
Sleep apnea usually is diagnosed based on your medical and family histories, a physical exam, and a review of your signs and symptoms.
There are many different types of pillows available on the market, and it can be difficult to choose the best one for your needs. If you suffer from sleep apnea, it is important to choose a pillow that will help to keep your airway open and clear. Some pillows are specifically designed for this purpose and can be very effective.
The best pillow for sleep apnea is usually one that is firm and supportive. It should be able to prop up your head and neck in a way that keeps your airway open. Many people find that memory foam pillows are the best option for this. They are firm enough to support your head and neck, but they are also soft and comfortable.
There are also speciality pillows available that are designed to help with sleep apnea. These often have a hollow core that you can breathe through. This can help to keep your airway open and improve your breathing.
If you are not sure which pillow is best for you, it is a good idea to speak to your doctor or a sleep specialist. They will be able to advise you on the best option for your needs.
Sleep apnea is a potentially serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts. If you snore loudly and feel tired even after a full night’s sleep, you may have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea can occur at any age, but it is more common in adults and is especially prevalent in those who are overweight.
Sleep apnea can cause serious health problems. It can make you very tired during the day. Sleep apnea can also lead to high blood pressure and other heart problems.
If you think you might have sleep apnea, see your doctor. He or she can do a physical exam and ask about your sleep habits. You may also need a sleep study to diagnose sleep apnea.
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