Sleep apnea is a condition that results in brief but frequent breathing pauses while you sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea can be genetic. However, it is challenging to distinguish the role of genetics from other sleep apnea risk factors, such as specific lifestyle choices and health issues.
What is Sleep Apnea?
Sleep apnea is a serious sleep problem characterized by frequent breathing pauses while you’re asleep. These pauses might appear several times during the night and range in duration from a few seconds to minutes. Because of this, people who have sleep apnea frequently suffer from excessive daytime drowsiness, poor sleep quality, and other health issues.
What Roles Does Genetics Play in Sleep Apnea Risk?
Obstructive sleep apnea may be hereditary. However, central sleep apnea does not seem to be inherited. A person’s risk of acquiring OSA is increased by around 50% if they have a parent, sibling, or child who has the condition. It’s critical to comprehend the differences between the two types of sleep apnea in order to comprehend why only OSA runs in families.
When the brain temporarily loses contact with the breathing muscles, central sleep apnea results. The use of certain narcotic drugs and other illnesses, including strokes and brain infections, are frequently connected to CSA.
Several heritable anatomical characteristics increase a person’s likelihood of developing obstructive sleep apnea. OSA occurs when the upper airway is momentarily obstructed while you sleep, either totally or partially. The following genetic characteristics might be involved in this airway blockage:
- A high-arched hard palate
- An unusually long soft palate
- A large or long tongue
- A narrow throat
- A receded lower jaw
- Obesity, particularly when fat is deposited in the neck, chest, and abdomen
Causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
A person’s chance of getting the disease is increased by several factors, including:
Obesity: A person is six times more likely to develop moderate to severe OSA for every 10% increase in body weight. On the other hand, breathing lapses per hour can be decreased by 26% if you lose 10% of your body weight.
Body Type: A person’s weight might raise their chance of developing OSA. The danger is higher for those with bigger necks or abdomens.
Age: As people age, OSA becomes more prevalent. For instance, studies indicate that 30% of males over 80 have OSA, compared to 10% of men between 30 and 40.
Face Anatomy: A small airway and an elevated risk of OSA can be caused by a person’s face shape and the arrangement of certain bones in the head and jaw.
Final Say!
Sleep apnea is a severe sleep condition that may have a big influence on a person’s quality of life. Obstructive sleep apnea can be genetic and can be caused by obesity, body type, or age. To manage sleep apnea and avoid related health issues, contact us at Smile 360 Family Dentistry. Call (909) 980-4878 to book your appointment.