ademstops

Ademstops is a Dutch term that translates to "breathing stops" and is commonly used to describe episodes in which breathing temporarily ceases or becomes markedly reduced. In medical contexts, ademstops most often refer to sleep-related breathing pauses.

Most frequently, breath stoppage is associated with sleep apnea, a condition characterized by recurrent interruptions in breathing during sleep. There are several types: obstructive sleep apnea, caused by airway collapse; central sleep apnea, caused by irregular brain signaling to the muscles that control breathing; and mixed apnea, which combines features of both.

The experience of ademstops can vary. People with apnea may snore, experience gasping or choking sensations upon waking, awaken with dry mouth, and feel excessive daytime sleepiness, morning headaches, and reduced concentration.

Diagnosis typically involves sleep studies such as polysomnography conducted in a clinic or validated home testing, which measure breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity during sleep. Doctors may also assess risk factors like obesity, neck circumference, age, gender, and family history.

Treatment aims to restore regular breathing during sleep and reduce related symptoms. Options include lifestyle changes (weight management, exercise, reducing alcohol and sedatives, sleeping on the side), continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bilevel PAP therapy, oral appliances that advance the jaw, positional therapy, and in some cases surgery or treatment of underlying conditions. Effective management often improves daytime alertness and lowers cardiovascular risk.