10 Common Causes of Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder that can cause serious health issues, such as heart problems and blood pressure. If left untreated, it can lead to loud snoring, tiredness during the day, and breathing problems during sleep. Even though it can affect anyone, it is most common in overweight and aging men. Here are ten causes of sleep apnea 1. Physical characteristics Sometimes, a person’s anatomical features, such as their jaw, neck, tongue, and tonsils, are positioned at the back of the throat to impact the airflow. It has often been a leading cause of sleep apnea and its related symptoms. 2. Obesity Being obese is not only generally unhealthy but also a risk factor for sleep apnea. According to research, not keeping your body weight in check can increase the risk of sleep apnea up to six times by narrowing the airways. 3. Use of alcohol and sedatives Sedatives and alcohol can relax the tissues in your throat, making it easier for them to obstruct the airflow. 4. Family history If you have close relatives or someone in your immediate family suffering from sleep apnea, then you are likely to develop the condition too. 5. Smoking Smokers are known to be at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea than those who do not smoke.