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Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that affects millions of Americans. Beyond robbing you of a good night’s rest, sleep apnea has a negative impact on your daily life, as well as your long-term health. From daytime drowsiness to cardiovascular risks, the effects of this pervasive condition are incredibly far-reaching. So, what causes sleep apnea, and is there a way to prevent it? While there is no singular cause or cure for sleep apnea, it has been linked to a variety of comorbidities, demographics, and other factors.
Obesity
When considering obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the patient's weight is the biggest indicator. According to neurologist Dr. Guy Leschziner, “We know that obesity is a big risk factor. So, if you are carrying significant excess weight, that influences how your chest moves. Fat is also deposited within the muscles of the throat and causes an increased likelihood of narrowing.”
Obesity-caused OSA is one instance where patients could see an improvement or reversal in their condition through lifestyle change. “Weight loss has a significant impact on sleep apnea and is really the only possible cure for most people.”
Read more: Sleep apnea and weight loss: What really happens when you lose weight
Genetics and anatomy
Obesity isn’t the only cause of OSA, and Leschziner notes that “there are individuals out there who are not overweight or obese, who do have significant sleep apnea, and that can be related to a structural abnormality in the airway, for example, very large tonsils or a very large base of the tongue.”
“One of the big risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea is genetics, because the shape of our airway is often influenced by our genes. So, if you have a strong family history of obstructive sleep apnea, then that is also another risk factor.”
Sleeping position
Sleep apnea isn't always caused by an irreversible comorbidity; it can even be due to something as simple as sleeping position. If you notice that your apnea episodes are worse when lying in a certain position, that may be the cause. In fact, studies show that supine sleeping positions (lying on your back) double your apnea-hypopnea index (AHI), which is the measurement used to diagnose sleep apnea.
Age
Age is another key cause of sleep apnea. While it can affect people of any age, it is far more common in older patients. Estimates show that in healthy individuals over the age of 65, over 50% suffer from sleep apnea, as opposed to only 16% in people under 30 years old. “As we get older, everything loosens up a little bit. We tend to have changes in terms of our body weight and where fat is deposited.”
Sex
Another important demographic factor to consider is sex. Male patients are more predisposed to develop sleep apnea, with nearly double the rate of OSA compared to the female population. Leschziner notes that this is because males “generally have thicker or muscular necks as well, which can influence the airway anatomy.”
Males are also more at risk for severe sleep apnea, but the sex gap begins to close when comparing post-menopausal females with their male counterparts.
Allergies
Seasonal allergies are also a potential cause that could cause OSA flare-ups. Studies show that allergic rhinitis (an inflammation of the mucous membrane causing stuffy nose, sneezing, and post-nasal drip) is linked to sleep apnea, with 23% of patients diagnosed with OSA also suffering from allergies.
Wondering if sleep apnea is affecting you? Take a few seconds to check out the Dumbo Health Sleep Quiz, and with a few simple questions, you can begin your treatment journey today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can sleep apnea develop suddenly?
Sleep apnea can develop gradually or appear more suddenly after weight gain, menopause, or certain health changes like heart failure or stroke. Some medications, such as sedatives or opioids, can also trigger or worsen symptoms.
Can thin people get sleep apnea?
Yes. Although obesity is the strongest risk factor, thin people can still develop sleep apnea due to factors like jaw structure, narrow airways, allergies, or genetic predisposition.
Can allergies make sleep apnea worse?
Yes. Chronic nasal congestion from allergic rhinitis can increase airway resistance and force mouth breathing, which contributes to airway collapse. Treating allergies can reduce apnea events and improve CPAP compliance.
Does smoking cause sleep apnea?
Smoking inflames and swells the upper airway tissues, which can narrow the airway and worsen obstructive events. Research shows smokers are 2.5 times more likely to develop OSA compared to nonsmokers.
Can sleep apnea be temporary?
Yes. Sleep apnea can be temporary in cases of acute illness, seasonal allergies, pregnancy, or medication side effects. In such cases, symptoms often improve once the underlying issue is resolved.
Wondering if sleep apnea is affecting you? Take a few seconds to check out the Dumbo Health Sleep Quiz, and with a few simple questions, you can begin your treatment journey today.
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