Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep.
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep disorder in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. If left untreated, it can lead to various health complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and daytime fatigue. As a trusted pulmonologist in Dubai, Dr. Syed Arshad Husain emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis and management of sleep apnea to ensure better health outcomes. Understanding the risk factors can help patients and their families take proactive steps toward prevention and treatment.
One of the most common risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea is excess weight. Fat deposits around the upper airway can obstruct breathing during sleep. Individuals with a higher body mass index (BMI) are at a significantly greater risk. Dr. Syed Arshad Husain advises patients to maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular physical activity to reduce this risk.
People with thicker necks may have narrower airways, making it more likely for airway obstruction to occur during sleep. A neck circumference of more than 17 inches in men and 16 inches in women is often associated with a higher risk of sleep apnea.
Although sleep apnea can occur at any age, it is more common in older adults. Men are two to three times more likely to develop sleep apnea than women. However, the risk for women increases after menopause. Dr. Husain recommends regular sleep assessments for individuals over 40, especially if other risk factors are present.
A family history of sleep apnea may increase the likelihood of developing the condition. Inherited traits such as facial structure, narrow airways, or a tendency to gain weight can all contribute. If sleep apnea runs in your family, it’s important to discuss this with a specialist.
Alcohol and sedatives relax the muscles in the throat, increasing the risk of airway collapse during sleep. Smoking, on the other hand, can increase inflammation and fluid retention in the airway. Dr. Husain strongly encourages patients to limit or eliminate these habits to reduce their risk.
Individuals with chronic nasal congestion, whether due to allergies or anatomical issues like a deviated septum, are more likely to experience sleep apnea. This is because nasal blockages make breathing more difficult, especially during sleep.
Certain health conditions such as hypertension, type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are closely linked to sleep apnea. Patients suffering from these conditions should undergo regular screening for sleep-disordered breathing.
Dr. Syed Arshad Husain offers advanced diagnostic tools, including sleep studies and pulmonary function tests, to accurately identify sleep apnea and its severity. With a tailored treatment plan — which may include CPAP therapy, lifestyle modifications, or surgical options — patients can achieve restful sleep and improved overall health.
If you or a loved one is experiencing loud snoring, daytime fatigue, or breathing pauses during sleep, schedule a consultation with Dr. Syed Arshad Husain in Dubai today. Early intervention can transform your sleep and your life.
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