What Is Sleep Apnea? Symptoms and Treatment Methods

What Is Sleep Apnea?

Sleep apnea is the temporary stopping or shallowing of breathing caused by the repeated narrowing or complete closure of the upper airway during sleep. If this occurs more than five times per hour, it is medically classified as sleep apnea. Snoring is the most common and usually the first noticed symptom.

What Are the Symptoms?

• Loud, irregular snoring
• Breathing pauses noticed by a partner or family member
• Excessive daytime sleepiness and fatigue
• Morning headaches, waking up feeling unrested
• Frequent waking at night, sweating or a need to urinate
• Difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness

Experiencing some of these symptoms alone does not mean a definitive diagnosis, but an assessment is recommended.

What Can Happen If Left Untreated?

Repeated breathing pauses cause oxygen levels to fluctuate throughout the night. In the long term, this is known to be associated with high blood pressure, cardiac arrhythmias and a general decline in quality of life. It is therefore important for people with symptoms not to delay evaluation.

How Is It Diagnosed?

An ENT examination assesses the upper airway; a definitive diagnosis requires polysomnography (a sleep study). This test can be done in a hospital sleep laboratory or with portable devices at home. The at-home testing option lets you sleep in your own bed for a more natural recording, and lets you start the process without waiting for a hospital appointment. You can book this service in Ankara via uykuapnesitesti.com.

Treatment Options

• CPAP therapy: Delivers pressurised air to the airway throughout the night to keep it open.
• Oral appliance: Devices that move the jaw and tongue forward can be used in mild-to-moderate cases.
• Surgical treatment: Corrective operations targeting the palate, tongue base or nasal structure may be considered.
• Lifestyle changes: Weight control and sleep-position adjustments support treatment.

The treatment plan suited to you is determined together based on your examination and test results. You can book an appointment for an assessment or review our sleep apnea treatment page.