It is a respiratory disorder that occurs during sleep, in the form of shallow breathing (hypopneas) and even breathing pauses (apneas) that cause hypoventilation due to upper airway obstruction. The oxygen level drops and carbon dioxide increases, causing a small awakening and loud snoring before normal breathing is restored.
Most of the patients who present it are overweight.
It manifests with daytime sleepiness, poor memory and attention, mood swings, headache and promotes chronic fatigue. Lack of oxygen can trigger other underlying problems.
It is suspected by questioning the patient and family, but a sleep study needs to be performed in the hospital to diagnose it.
Weight loss if necessary, side sleeping, smoking cessation and avoidance of large meals before bedtime are advised. If it persists, a machine that introduces pressurized air into the lungs and prevents airway obstruction may be necessary.
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