Can Smoking Cause Sleep Apnea?
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Sleep apnea is a disruptive sleep disorder characterized by pauses in breathing due to an obstructed airway. As a result, the body does not receive sufficient levels of oxygen. Dr. Avi Ishaaya has been treating sleep disorders in Los Angeles, CA for over 20 years and is well-experienced in sleep apnea diagnosis and treatment.
Unfortunately, smokers are more likely to suffer from sleep apnea than nonsmokers. Join us as we explore the relationship between smoking and sleep apnea, diving into the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available at Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers.
Do you have sleep apnea symptoms?
Sleep apnea can be challenging to diagnose because symptoms are sometimes confused with other disorders. Common signs include loud snoring and gasping for air during sleep. During the day, patients may have issues like headaches, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and insomnia. Be sure to discuss your concerns with Dr. Ishaaya if you experience sleep apnea symptoms.
What is the connection between smoking and sleep apnea?
Smoking is known to increase your risk of sleep apnea in numerous ways:
- Irritation of the airways: Cigarette smoke causes an inflammatory response in the airways, making it harder to breathe properly.
- Decreased lung function: Smoking impairs lung function, meaning the body may not maintain steady breathing when sleeping.
- Increased mucus production: Smoking can lead to increased mucus production in the airways, which can obstruct the natural flow of air.
The nicotine in cigarettes is also a stimulant. This means people are more likely to wake up frequently throughout the night.
What about e-cigarettes?
The use of e-cigarettes is on the rise, with many people turning to them as a way to quit smoking. Though e-cigarettes do not contain tobacco, many of them have nicotine that can contribute to sleep apnea. Instead of e-cigarettes, patients should look for other methods of quitting smoking to improve their health.
How is sleep apnea diagnosed?
Dr. Ishaaya diagnoses sleep apnea by assessing your medical history, conducting a physical exam, and performing additional testing as needed in Los Angeles, CA.
Disruptive sleep can be diagnosed through a test called nocturnal polysomnography. This involves state-of-the-art equipment that monitors heart, lung, and brain activity. We also assess breathing patterns, arm and leg movements, and blood oxygen levels while you remain asleep. The information the test provides allows us to determine if you have a sleep disorder.
How is sleep apnea treated?
The most common treatment for sleep apnea is positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy. Patients who choose this option wear a mask over the nose or mouth during sleep so they have a continuous flow of air. An automatic positive airway pressure (APAP) device automatically adjusts air pressure levels during the night based on your changing breathing requirements.
Lifestyle changes like quitting smoking are highly recommended for sleep apnea treatment. Dr. Ishaaya can also suggest other modifications depending on your individual needs.
Improve your sleep quality with Dr. Ishaaya
If you are concerned about your sleep health, don't wait to get the help you need at Dr. Avi Ishaaya Centers. Contact Dr. Avi Ishaaya today to book a consultation in Los Angeles, CA. He can provide detailed information about sleep apnea symptoms and how they relate to smoking. Together, we'll develop a treatment plan to help you get the best possible rest.