Légzéskimaradás

Légzéskimaradás, also known as sleep apnea, is a common sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep. These interruptions, called apneas, can last for a few seconds to over a minute and may occur many times an hour. There are two main types: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and central sleep apnea (CSA). OSA occurs when the airway becomes blocked, usually by the relaxation of soft tissue in the back of the throat. CSA occurs when the brain fails to send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing.

Symptoms of légzéskimaradás often include loud snoring, gasping for air during sleep, daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and difficulty concentrating. Individuals with undiagnosed sleep apnea may also experience irritability, dry mouth upon waking, and frequent nighttime awakenings. If left untreated, légzéskimaradás can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

Diagnosis typically involves a sleep study, also known as polysomnography, which monitors breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity during sleep. Treatment options vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. For OSA, continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) therapy is a common and effective treatment, which uses a machine to deliver pressurized air to keep the airway open. Other treatments may include lifestyle changes, oral appliances, or surgery. CSA is often treated by addressing the underlying medical condition causing the breathing disorder.