Sleep apnea is a common sleep disorder which is triggered by repeated episodes of the closing of the upper airway during sleep. This process results in the reduction of oxygen and airflow to the lungs. It can trigger gasping episodes, low oxygen levels in the bloodstream, and frequent nighttime awakenings.

People diagnosed with sleep apnea, or obstructive sleep apnea are loud snorers and can experience episodes of choking, coughing, gasping and breathing pauses during sleep. It is quite common that a person who has sleep apnea isn’t aware of his awakenings. However, these episodes usually result in excessive daytime fatigue, no matter how many hours the person tries to sleep.

There have been a number of studies which indicate that people with asthma are at a higher risk of developing sleep apnea. In fact, sleep apnea can worsen asthma and asthma symptoms. Sleep apnea can increase acid reflux which triggers weight gain, which is the culprit for decreased airflow in the airways of the lungs.

How Sleep Apnea Affects Asthma Symptoms?

Experiencing acid reflux during sleep will worsen the asthma symptoms. Sleep apnea doesn’t only worsen acid reflux but also decreases the ability of the sphincter muscles in the esophagus to keep acid in the stomach. Moreover, this sleep disorder can worsen the inflammation in the lungs caused by asthma by increasing the inflammatory chemicals within the bloodstream. These inflammatory chemicals trigger weight gain and obesity, which also worsen asthma. Last but not least, sleep apnea decreases airflow which triggers low oxygen levels in the bloodstream and strain on the heart. This causes more irritation in the smooth muscle around the airways in people with asthma and makes asthma symptoms worse.

Sleep Apnea Treatment

One of the most effective treatments for obstructive sleep apnea is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). This therapy involves a patient wearing a mask during sleep, which provides a continuous stream of pressurized air to keep the airways open.

Another possible treatment is Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, a surgical option, where the tonsils and part of the soft palate and uvula are taken out. The surgery is a recommended option for patients who are not overweight or obese. Nevertheless, even if a person undergoes this surgery, they might still need to use CPAP therapy.

Before using CPAP therapy, it’s crucial to get a proper diagnosis from a physician who will also tell you how to use the device properly. Improper use of CPAP can worsen the sleep apnea symptoms. On the other hand, when properly used, CPAP therapy will help in improving acid reflux, reducing inflammation within the body and the lungs, improving oxygenation of the lungs and opening the airways.