Is Sleep Apnea Genetic? Can Antidepressants Cause It?

 

If you have sleep apnea, it's essential to know that you're not alone. This severe condition affects millions of people worldwide, and many don't even realize they have it.

Sleep apnea is a condition in which breathing stops for short periods. It is caused by the soft tissue in the back of the throat collapsing and blocking the airway. This can often happen during the night and lead to serious health problems.

If you're living with sleep apnea, it's important to remember that you're not alone. Many resources are available to help you cope with the challenges of this condition. With the proper treatment and support, you can still enjoy a good quality of life despite your diagnosis.

Is Sleep Apnea Genetic?

Most people with sleep apnea are unaware of it, but it is more common than you might think. It affects about 18 million Americans and over 1% of the world's population.

It can also be genetic. According to studies, genetics account for approximately 40% of the causes of obstructive sleep apnea. As a result, it can assume that sleep apnea is genetic or heritable. If you have a family history of sleep apnea, you are more likely to get the problem yourself.

On the other hand, no scientific explanation exists for which genes are specifically responsible for the development of sleep apnea. A family history with underlying genetic reasons is associated with an increased risk of developing sleep apnea. In other words, they act as an intermediary between sleep apnea and heredity.

Can Antidepressants Cause It?

The use of antidepressants is on the rise, and so are reports of sleep apnea. The question is, how do these two things correlate?

Antidepressants are used to treat mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and panic attacks. These medications raise the quantity of serotonin in the brain, a neurotransmitter that governs mood. Sleep apnea occurs when breathing becomes shallow or stops during sleep. This can happen when people are obese or have large tonsils, teeth, or adenoids in their airways. It can also occur if they have a small upper airway and large tongue that block the airway while they sleep.

It has been found that antidepressants can cause sleep apnea by changing the way serotonin affects breathing muscles and nerves in the throat, nose, and mouth that control breathing during sleep. This change in breathing patterns causes people to stop breathing for long periods while asleep, leading to oxygen deprivation and fatigue during waking hours.

The Best Ways To Deal With Sleep Apnea

The first and most crucial step in dealing with sleep apnea is to see a doctor. Sleep apnea is a severe condition that can lead to many health problems, so getting it diagnosed and treated as soon as possible is vital. There are many different types of sleep apnea, so it is essential to see a doctor who can properly diagnose and treat your specific condition.

Get a CPAP Machine

If you have sleep apnea, one of the best things you can do is get a CPAP machine. CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure, and it is the most effective treatment for sleep apnea. A CPAP machine keeps your airway open by blowing air into your nose or mouth while you sleep. It may take some time to get used to sleeping with a CPAP machine, but it is worth it because it will help you get the restful sleep you need.

Change your Lifestyle

Making some lifestyle changes can also help reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea. If you are overweight, losing weight can help reduce the amount of tissue in your throat that can block your airway. Quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol before bedtime can also help reduce the risk of sleep apnea.

Living With Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea can be a very challenging condition to live with. It can cause fatigue, daytime sleepiness, and difficulty concentrating. It can also lead to serious health problems like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. If you have sleep apnea, seeking treatment to manage your symptoms and reduce your risk of developing these serious complications is essential.

The Importance Of Support

If you have sleep apnea, it is crucial to find a support system to help you cope with the condition. Many resources are available to help you learn about sleep apnea and how to manage it. There are also support groups for people with sleep apnea where you can share your experiences and connect with others who understand what you are going through.

Conclusion

The best way to deal with sleep apnea is to see a doctor and get a CPAP machine. However, living with sleep apnea can be very challenging. It is essential to have a support system in place to help you manage the condition.

You can visit Gorman Health and Wellness, which has a professional Sleep Apnea Doctor Los Angeles has to offer you with years of experience helping patients with sleeping problems.