Causes of Sleep Apnea
Generally, the throat muscles keep the throat and airway open, but in the case of sleep apnea, the throat collapses during sleep, blocking the airway and preventing air from getting to the lungs.
Causes of an obstructed airway include:
Shape of head and neck – some head and neck shapes can create a smaller than normal airway.
Large tonsils or adenoids – this or other anatomical differences such as a deviated septum, enlarged tongue, or receding chin can also create difficulties breathing during sleep.
Excess weight or obesity – although slim people can suffer from sleep apnea, obesity is a risk factor for sleep apnea.
Abnormally relaxed throat muscles and tongue – this can be due to alcohol or sedative use before bedtime.
Other risk factors for sleep apnea include:
Irregular sleep hours
Snoring
Smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
Nasal congestion, nasal blockages, and nasal irritants
