Structural Abnormalities
Any abnormality in the
throat, mouth or nose that causes some obstruction in the upper airways can produce sleep apnea syndrome. Among the most likely
structural causes of sleep apnea are abnormalities in the soft palate and surrounding areas that cause the pharynx to collapse more easily during inspiration.
Snoring
Chronic snoring may actually
be a cause of some cases of sleep apnea. Over time the vibration and the increased
pressure against the upper airways as a snoring person inhales may cause the
soft palate to lengthen. This stretched palate is more prone to collapse and
obstruction.
Snoring is very common.
It does not always reflect apnea nor is it always a sign of respiratory disorder.
While snoring is also associated with daytime sleepiness regardless of whether
apneas are present, snoring alone does not appear to pose any major health risks.
Obesity
Obesity is strongly associated
with sleep apnea, and there is some evidence it may be a cause of it. Imaging
scans have shown fatty cells infiltrating the throat tissue, which suggests that
they could narrow the airways. One study showed that the more obese a person
with sleep apnea was, the
greater the obstruction of the airway. Obstructive sleep apnea may contribute
to obesity, due to the fatigue and inactivity. A sleep person tends to be sedentary.
Gastroesophageal Reflux
Disease (GERD)
GERD (the cause of heartburn)
may cause sleep apnea. In patients with GERD, stomach acid enters the esophagus.
This can produce spasms of the vocal cords (larynx), thereby blocking
the flow of air to the lungs.
